Australasian Plant Conservation BULLETIN OF THE AUSTRALIAN NETWORK FOR PLANT CONSERVATION Inc
voluMe 18 nuMber 4 • MArCh - MAY 2010
The impacts of increasing solar ultraviolet light on the wetland mires of the mainland Australian Alps Reversing drivers of degradation in Blue Mountains and Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp endangered ecological communities Conserving the endangered montane wetlands of the New England Tablelands Wetlands of the Murray-Darling Basin: EPBC Act threatened ecological communities? Vegetation management and hydrological restoration of Bolin Bolin Billabong, Victoria And much much more …
sPeCiAl theMe: wetlAnDs AnD PlAnt ConservAtion Australasian Plant Conservation
ANPC National Office Australasian Plant Conservation GPO Box 1777 Editor Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia Rosemary Purdie Ph: (02) 6250 9509 Fax: (02) 6250 9528 Editorial Team Email: [email protected] Paul Gibson-Roy, Sally Jacka, Bob Makinson, Web: http://www.anpc.asn.au Sue Mathams and Zoë Smith ANPC Inc. National Office Staff Layout & Graphic Design Mission Statement Sue Mathams and Merryl Bradley Siobhan Duffy “To promote and improve Volunteers Australasian Plant Conservation is produced by the plant conservation” Odette Mayne ANPC Inc. with assistance from the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Contributing to Australasian ANPC Committee Australasian Plant Conservation is printed on Plant Conservation President Vice President recycled paper. Bob Makinson David Coates ISSN 1039-6500 Australasian Plant Conservation is a forum for information exchange for all Treasurer Secretary Adrian Fethers Phil Ainsley those involved in plant conservation: please use it to share your work Committee Members New Zealand Plant Conservation with others. Articles, information Network Paul Adam, Tom Celebrezze, Paul Donatiu, snippets, details of new publications or Paul Gibson-Roy, Sally Jacka, Helena Mills, President Philippa Crisp research, and diary dates are welcome. Noushka Reiter, Mark Richardson, Secretary John Sawyer Zoë Smith and David Taylor PO Box 5086 Wellington, New Zealand. The deadline for the June–August Email: [email protected] 2010 issue is Friday 28 May 2010. The ANPC News Web: www.nzpcn.org.nz theme of that issue will be ‘Regrowth: a positive force for plant conservation’. To subscribe or unsubscribe go to http://anpcnews.blogspot.com/. General articles are also very welcome. To post a message, send a request to Please contact Tom Celebrezze if you [email protected]. are intending to submit an article: tom. [email protected]. Authors are encouraged to submit ANPC Major Sponsors images with articles or information. Please submit images as clear prints, Gold Sponsors slides, drawings, or in electronic format. Electronic images need to be at least 300 dpi resolution, submitted in at least the size that they are to be published, in tif, jpg or gif format. Guidelines for authors are at: http://www.anpc.asn.au/ Australian National Botanic Gardens, ACT anpc/pdffiles/APCGuideContrib.pdf. Please send articles, no more than OTHER Sponsors 1200 words, as a MS Word (2000 compatible) or rich text format file, on disk or by email to: tom.celebrezze@ environment.nsw.gov.au
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Front cover: Buttongrass (Gymnoschoenus sphaerocephalus) wetland, Ebor, New England Tablelands with abundant yellow Xyris operculata. Photo: Adam Gosling. Printed by: Blue Star Print, Canberra.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Contents
From the Editor...... 2 The impacts of increasing solar ultraviolet light on the wetland mires of the mainland Australian Alps by Roger Good, Genevieve Wright, Geoff Hope and Jennie Whinam...... 3 Reversing drivers of degradation in Blue Mountains and Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp endangered ecological communities by Michael Hensen and Eric Mahony...... 5 Conserving the endangered montane wetlands of the New England Tablelands by Adam Gosling and Nic Cobcroft...... 7 Wetlands of the Murray-Darling Basin: EPBC Act threatened ecological communities? by Gina Newton...... 9 Vegetation management and hydrological restoration of Bolin Bolin Billabong, Victoria by Karl Just and Garry French...... 11 Floristic values and hydrological threats to freshwater claypans in Drummond Nature Reserve, Western Australia by Wendy Chow, Ryan Vogwill and Matt Forbes...... 13 Rehabilitating a dry wetland on the southern tablelands of New South Wales by Michael Pattison...... 15 The invasion of common reed (Phragmites australis) in Chesapeake Bay, USA by Dennis F. Whigham, Karin M. Kettenring, Melissa K. McCormick and Heather Baron...... 17 Removing the Devils Claw from Gregory National Park, Northern Territory by Karlie Goetze and Derek Sandow...... 19 Tackling wetland weeds: reducing impacts and restoring native vegetation on the Far North Coast of New South Wales by Laura White and Garry Owers...... 20 Adelaide Botanic Gardens First Creek Wetland Aquifer Storage and Recovery Project by Phil Ainsley and Andrew Pill...... 22 Supporting the wetland community to protect and restore Australian wetlands by Kate Heyward...... 24 A new organisation supporting wetland restoration, management and research in the Murray Darling by Roger Good...... 25 Medicinal plants of Nigeria’s savannah areas under threat by T.R. Fasola...... 26 ANPC in the USA: directions in science and conservation at the Smithsonian Institution by Zoë Smith...... 28 New Key Threatening Processes listed under the EPBC Act...... 29
Regular Features Report from NZ Plant Conservation Network...... 29 Research Roundup...... 30 Book Reviews...... 31 Information Resources and Useful Web Sites...... 34 Conferences and Workshops...... 36
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Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 1 Australasian Plant Conservation
From the Editor
Rosemary Purdie c/- Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research, Canberra.
The theme for this issue of Australasian Plant and The Morass wetland system near Goulburn in New Conservation is ‘Wetlands and plant conservation’. South Wales. As many ANPC members in southern Australia Our attention then turn to tackling specific weeds of would know, numerous wetlands there have been wetland ecosystems: Common Reed (Phragmites decidedly dry over the recent years of drought, with australis) in Chesapeake Bay, USA; Devils Claw those conditions adding to the challenges of managing (Martynia annua) along rivers in Gregory National Park these important ecosystems. Climate change, urban in the Northern Territory (where getting rid of the weed and other development, weed invasion, feral animals, has been turned into a festival); and Cat’s Claw Creeper clearing of surrounding landscapes in catchments, (Macfadyena unguis-cati) and Salvinia (Salvinia inappropriate management (including fire and grazing molesta) in the Richmond Catchment in northern New regimes), inappropriate recreational activities, drainage South Wales. and river regulation are among the numerous threats being tackled. Desired management outcomes include In the final three wetland articles, we look at the maintaining or restoring wetland ecosystems, increasing educational opportunities provided at the Adelaide wetland resilience, and conserving wetland-dependent Botanic Gardens through a wetland to be constructed plant (and animal) species. for water storage and recovery, and the activities and resources available through two non-government For this issue, we defined wetlands as natural areas organisations set up to focus on wetland conservation— that are periodically or permanently inundated, as well WetlandCare Australia, and the newer Murray Darling as constructed wetlands. All types are covered in the Wetlands Ltd. following articles. Before our regular items, there is an update on research We start with wetlands in upland areas, looking at from the wheatbelt of Western Australia looking at plant conservation work associated with wetlands the conservation value of fencing remnant woodlands, in the Alps National Parks, the Blue Mountains and an article from Nigeria outlining medicinal plants Newnes Plateau and on the New England Tablelands of under threat in that country’s northern savannah areas, New South Wales. These articles are followed by two and the third report on ANPC in the USA. These are on wetlands associated with major river systems—a followed by the Report from the New Zealand Plant variety of wetlands on the Murray-Darling system, and Conservation Network, Research Roundup, three book billabong wetlands of the Yarra River in Victoria. We reviews, Information Resources, and Conferences and then turn to plant conservation work in drier systems— Workshops. claypan wetlands of Drummond Nature Reserve north- east of Perth, Western Australia, and the Lake Bathurst It’s an issue full of interest, so read on!
The Morass, a wetland on the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales that until recently had been dry due to drought conditions, is part of an area undergoing plant rehabilitation work described in the article on pages 15 and 16 of this issue. Photo: R. Purdie.
2 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
The impacts of increasing solar ultraviolet light on the wetland mires of the mainland Australian Alps
Roger Good1, Genevieve Wright2, Geoff Hope3 and Jennie Whinam4 11178 Bungendore Road, Bungendore NSW. Email: [email protected] 2NSW Dept of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Queanbeyan, NSW. 3Archaeology and Natural History, Australian National University, Canberra. 4Biodiversity Conservation Branch, Dept of Primary Industries and Water Tasmania, Hobart.
Introduction as a response to the increased number of cloud free days but possibly as a response to the influence of atmospheric The wetland mires of the Australian Alps were listed in ozone depletion. 2009 as a nationally threatened ecological community (Alpine Sphagnum Bogs and Associated Fens) under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Impacts of solar UV-B increases on alpine biota Act 1999. This was because the area of bogs and fens has Little research has been done to identify the impacts of declined dramatically over the past 150 years due to grazing UVR on mire vegetation, particularly in alpine areas. by domestic stock, recreation activities, infrastructure Several studies in the northern hemisphere have identified development, increasing feral animal damage and exotic amphibian populations, particularly frogs, as decreasing weed invasion. rapidly over recent years and identified links between these declines and increasing UV-B levels (Blaustein et al. 1994). The bog and fen communities are widespread across In the Australian Alps, UV-B affects the Alpine Tree Frog the Alps with the majority of them being within the (Litoria verreauxii alpina) and possibly the Corroboree Alps National Parks. Within these parks the area of Frog (Pseudophryne corroboree and P. pengilleyi), and bogs and fens has declined from approximately 8500 ha may cause populations of these and other frog species to pre-European settlement, to currently about 5000 ha in decline drastically with possible local extinctions at higher reasonable condition. Although many bogs and fens in the elevations (Broomhall 1998). parks had recovered from past grazing impacts, the high intensity wildfires of 2003 and 2009 had a considerable adverse impact on them. Approximately 70 bogs required Impacts of increasing solar UV-B restoration works after the 2003 wildfires to ensure they on Sphagnum bogs and fens recovered to a fully functional condition. The bog communities are edaphic groundwater Climate change and changes in local climatic conditions communities, essentially maintained by snowmelt and are now the greatest threat to the survival of the bogs summer runoff, as well as subsurface seepage. The bogs and fens. The predicted climate change scenarios for the are characterised by Sphagnum cristatum, Empodisma Alps indicate higher temperatures, less snow and more minus and Epacris paludosa. The Sphagnum often occurs precipitation as high intensity storm events. Already as large hummocks growing over small shrubs. In sites that experiencing changes in precipitation regimes, increased are not suitable for shrub growth, Sphagnum grows with summer temperatures, lower total cloud cover and elevated Carex gaudichaudiana. In continuously wet sites where ultraviolet light levels, the Alps ecosystems have been water-ponding occurs, acid fens colonised almost entirely identified in the National Climate Change Adaptation by Carex gaudichaudiana are present. Framework (COAG 2006) as being critically vulnerable to The bogs and fens with free-standing surface water are the detrimental impacts of climate change. predicted to be most affected by increasing UV-B, as Increases in solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is predicted ultraviolet light can penetrate to considerable depths in to have a significant impact on bog plants, particularly near-pristine alpine ponds (Smith 1989). Where there has Sphagnum (moss) species. Although solar UVR occurs been little disturbance of the bogs and fens, the pond- as long-wavelength UV-A, short-wavelength UV-C and fringing herbaceous vegetation is shaded from UV-B by medium wavelength UV-B, only UV–B is significant in the taller herbs (Empodisma minus, Baloskion australe) terms of impacts on biological systems. and in many sites by shrubs (Epacris paludosa, Melaleuca pityoides and Richea continentis). Unfortunately in the Over the past decade annual total solar UV-B exposure majority of bog and fen sites the fringing shrub vegetation levels have increased in the Australian Alps (Good, has been lost due to past grazing and recent burning. As unpublished data) by approximately 12 per cent, partly a result many bogs and fens have very much reduced
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 3 Australasian Plant Conservation natural shading of the significant remnant Sphagnum and UV-B will be just as significant as it will influence the the populations of frogs and invertebrate decomposers that resilience, survival and distribution of the water dependent inhabit the moss and ponds. vegetation species (particularly Sphagnum) and amphibians (such as Corroboree Frogs) and invertebrates dependent It has been recognised that Sphagnum species grow most upon the Sphagnum for their breeding and survival. readily where approximately 70 per cent shade cover is provided by other shrubs and tall grasses (Hope et al. Irrespective of the restoration efforts of field managers to 2005). With the loss of the natural shade cover as a response date to protect many bog and fen sites, further loss of these to climate change factors, the extent and distribution of organic groundwater communities seems inevitable, as it Sphagnum in and around bogs and fens will continue to is predicted that over the next 50 years the total area of decline as UV-B levels increase. mire will further decline from approximately 5000 ha to about 3900 ha of stable, fully functional bog and fen. The Using shadecloth to ameliorate impacts long-term prospect is however closely tied to the scenarios for climate change, currently reported as tracking the After the 2003 fires in Namadgi and Kosciuszko national most extreme predictions by the International Panel on parks, 70% nylon shadecloth was spread over a number of Climate Change. bogs (Figure 1) to ameliorate the impact of UV-B on the remnant Sphagnum hummocks and to promote Sphagnum recovery (Good 2008). This adaptive management References response has to date been very successful (Dave Whitfield Council of Australian Governments (COAG) (2006). National pers. comm.., Namadgi National Park) in both assisting the Climate Change Adaptation Framework. COAG, Canberra. regrowth of Sphagnum and of other bog plants, particularly Blaustein, A.R., Hoffman, P.D., Hokit, D.G., Liesecker, J.M. Empodisma spp. Walls, S.C. and Hays, J.B. (1994). UV repair and resistance to solar UV-B in amphibian eggs: a link to population declines? Shadecloth has also been found to be beneficial for total Proceedings of National Academy of Science USA 91: 1791-95. biomass production. From the data derived from quadrats established to monitor Sphagnum recovery, after five years Broomhall, S.D. (1998). The implications of ozone depletion for it was found that biomass production under the shadecloth the Australian Alps: a review. In Ken Green (Ed.) Snow. A natural was approximately 30 per cent higher than the biomass history; an uncertain future. Australian Alps Liaison Committee, Canberra, pp 224-247. production for the adjacent unshaded quadrats (Figure 2). The annual total mean biomass production was 4.35 tonnes Good, R.B. (2008). Management adaptations to climate change per hectare for the unshaded sites and 6.02 tonnes per impacts in the alpine area. In Corridors for Survival in a Changing hectare for shaded sites. World. Proceedings of the National Parks Association ACT Symposium, Canberra, May 2008. Summary Hope, G.S.,Whinam, J. and Good, R.B. (2005). Restoration trials of peatlands in Namadgi (ACT) and Kosciuszko (NSW) National Changes in precipitation and runoff flow regimes from Parks after bushfire. Ecological Management and Restoration 12: climate change may adversely impact the hydrological 215-8. functioning of the alpine bogs and fens. However the high and increasing levels of solar radiation as ultraviolet light Smith, R.C. (1989). Ozone, middle ultraviolet radiation and the aquatic environment. Photochemistry and Photobiology 50: 459-68.
Figure 1. Shadecloth spread over a degraded bog to protect Figure 2. Shadecloth removed showing the regrowth and and enhance the regrowth of remnant Sphagnum hummocks. biomass production of Empodisma and Sphagnum species. Photo: D. Whitfield. Photo: D. Whitfield.
4 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Reversing drivers of degradation in Blue Mountains and Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp endangered ecological communities
Michael Hensen and Eric Mahony Blue Mountains City Council, Katoomba, NSW. Email: [email protected]
The ‘Save our Swamps’ (SOS) project is an integrated Approximately 3200 ha of Blue Mountains Swamps exist program of works to protect and enhance the condition and with over 1000 ha within catchments impacted by the urban extent of the nationally endangered ‘Temperate Highland ridgeline development characteristic of the Blue Mountains Peat Swamps on Sandstone’ across the Blue Mountains and townships. Urban development has resulted in an increase Lithgow local government areas. It is funded by both the in impervious surfaces, peak flow volume and duration, NSW Environmental Trust and Commonwealth ‘Caring causing a reduction of recharge to aquifers that support for Country’ program. ground water dependent ecosystems; erosion, gullying, piping and channelisation within swamps; and delivery of The SOS program has adopted an ecosystem restoration sediment containing nutrients and weed propagules. approach. This focuses on rehydrating desiccated swamp systems to restore their natural hydrological conditions, Incised channels or pipes drain subsurface flows, lowering thereby allowing natural swamp regeneration to occur, groundwater tables within swamps and desiccating swamp while concurrently ‘turning the tap down’ on ongoing substrates. Desiccation causes a significant reduction in drivers of swamp degradation within their catchments. floristic complexity and makes affected swamps vulnerable to weed invasion. Weeds are able to exploit the openings The Blue Mountains swamp rehabilitation works are created by weakened or dying swamp plants, and thrive on supported by soft engineering structures and conventional the more aerobic but still relatively moist and nutrient rich soil conservation earthworks in the surrounding catchment. soil conditions. These encourage the diversion, detention and infiltration of sediment laden stormwater runoff before it can reach Approximately 650 ha of Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp the affected swamp systems to protect them from ongoing occur on the Newnes Plateau, of which only 160 ha are erosion and sedimentation. In the Newnes Plateau Shrub protected in the conservation estate. A significant driver Swamps this approach is complemented with additional of degradation is recreational vehicles that damage swamp measures for controlling threats from recreational vehicles. systems as well as creating highly erosive access trails which dump significant amounts of sediment into swamps, Context of the project smothering their vegetation. The ‘Temperate Highland Peat Swamps on Sandstone’ In 2005, the Blue Mountains City Council’s Upland endangered ecological community is characterized by Swamp Rehabilitation Program began to trial, modify, and the formation of highly organic ‘peaty’ waterlogged soils adapt the soft engineering swamp rehabilitation techniques overlying sandstone substrates at altitude. The swamps are pioneered in the bogs and fens of Kosciuszko National found in the poorly drained headwaters and gently sloping Park (Good 2006) to the local context and conditions of valleys of the Blue Mountains and Newnes Plateaus as well Blue Mountains Swamps. The SOS program has continued as in the Southern Highlands and around Bombala. Under the ongoing process of adaption and refinement of these the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW ) they techniques for Temperate Highland Peat Swamps across are also listed as threatened under their regional variations, almost their entire range. including Blue Mountains Swamps, Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamps and Montane Temperate Peatlands. Methods and outcomes These swamps provide vital ecosystem services by acting The principle strategy behind soft engineering swamp like giant sponges in the landscape absorbing and filtering rehabilitation is to slow the movement of water through water before releasing it slowly back to the environment. swamps by constructing check dams, water spreaders They help to maintain baseflows to watercourses, and chains of infiltration cells to encourage the lateral moderate peak flow events and purify water by filtering and vertical rehydration of desiccated swamp substrates. out sediments and pollutants. They also provide habitat for Simultaneously, ongoing drainage and dewatering of swamp several nationally endangered animal species including the substrates is prevented by packing and infill of drainage Blue Mountains Water Skink and Giant Dragonfly, and points such as areas of channelisation and piping. many threatened or regionally significant plants including The soft-engineering swamp rehabilitation techniques used Carex klaphakei, Lepidosperma evansianum, Almalaea in the project utilise predominantly organic materials such incurvata and Boronia deanei.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 5 Australasian Plant Conservation
as coir logs, sterilised straw bales, jute mesh, jute matting Benefits and wooden stakes. Over time these organic materials break The SOS approach to swamp rehabilitation has demonstrated down and become incorporated into the swamp substrate. multiple benefits. It directs resources to treating the causes This is complemented by the installation of devices in rather than the symptoms of degradation, thereby avoiding the swamp’s immediate catchment to mitigate the causal the unnecessary diversion of resources into open-ended stormwater drivers of degradation. Devices include: weed control programs, which will tend to occur where • soft engineering structures designed for spreading drivers of degradation are still operating in swamp systems. and holding water below stormwater outlets to reduce Once the swampy waterlogged and anaerobic conditions stormwater erosivity and encourage infiltration; and are re-established by the soft engineering rehabilitation techniques, many weeds (particularly weedy grasses) are • soil conservation works such as roll-over bars, mitre outcompeted by the spontaneous natural regeneration of drains, detention basins, ripping, brush matting and native swamp vegetation and no longer require the same revegetation to control erosion and encourage infiltration level of control. along access trails and hardened degraded areas within the swamp catchment. The approach also encourages a whole-of-catchment In the Newnes Plateau additional strategies have been approach and helps prioritise resources to situations where developed to address the impacts of recreational vehicles the drivers of degradation can be reversed or substantially in swamps. These include: mitigated, leading to long-term sustainable rehabilitation outcomes. • strategic restriction of vehicular access with bollards, brush-matting, 4WD barrier pits and track closures; Building community capacity • the provision of sacrificial single track crossings where alternative diversions are not available; and The program of on-ground rehabilitation works are • educational presentations to 4WD and trail bike clubs complemented by community capacity building initiatives to raise awareness of the ecological values of swamp including: systems and their sensitivity to damage. • a community education and awareness raising program; • a school education program aiming to incorporate swamp wetland education into the curriculums of primary and secondary schools in the Blue Mountains and Lithgow local government areas; • a community Swampcare volunteer program consisting of a mixture of capacity building workshops and on- ground volunteering opportunities; • a private landholder incentive program to encourage private landholders in priority sub-catchments to protect and enhance swamp communities on private property; and • a workshop program to transfer soft engineering swamp rehabilitation skills to relevant agency staff and land managers. Infiltration cells rehydrate swamp areas degraded by recreational vehicle damage, Newnes Plateau. Swamp remediation manual Photo: Michael Hensen. The knowledge gained through the SOS program, including case studies and technical specifications for implementing soft engineering swamp rehabilitation techniques, are currently being compiled into a swamp remediation manual by E.Mahony and M.Hensen. Titled Soft engineering solutions for swamp remediation — A ‘How to’ guide, it will be available from the SOS website
Reference Good, R., (2006). The Australian Alps rehabilitation manual – A guide to ecological rehabilitation in the Australian Alps. Australian Alps Liaison Committee, available at
6 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Conserving the endangered montane wetlands of the New England Tablelands
Adam Gosling and Nic Cobcroft WetlandCare Australia, Ballina, NSW. Email: [email protected]
Ranging from shallow, ephemeral lagoons amongst open, grassy woodlands to peat swamps at the icy headwaters of mountain creeks, the montane wetlands of the New England Tablelands of New South Wales are both intrinsically beautiful and incredibly biodiverse. They support a unique variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic and have an extremely limited distribution. Most of the wetlands occur in a highly modified agricultural landscape, and as a consequence many have suffered significant damage or have been completely lost. A large percentage of those wetlands remaining are located on private property and are critically important as they provide the only habitat for a range of interdependent species. Amongst these species are many that are rare Upland wetlands field day at Little Llangothlin. or threatened including the migratory Latham’s Snipe Photo: Adam Gosling. (Gallinago hardwickii), the ground burrowing Sphagnum Frog (Philoria spagnicolus), the Giant Dragonfly of on‑ground works including wetland protection fencing, (Petalura gigantea), the New England Gentian (Gentiana weed and feral animal control, revegetation of buffer wissmannii) and the endangered Tenterfield Eyebright zones and installation of interpretive signage. Numerous (Euphrasia orthocheila). community field days have also been held in order to These montane wetlands are also located within the showcase the work that has been achieved, and to raise only Australian north–south corridor that can support awareness of these important ecosystems and the need to conservation linkages over the maximum possible further protect them. elevation, latitude and climate range. Additionally, many of these wetlands are at the headwaters of creeks Upland wetlands (lagoons) and drainage lines which provide drinking water for the Upland wetlands or lagoons occur as permanent, intermittent majority of the population of the east coast of Australia. or ephemeral wetlands in oval-shaped depressions ‘Upland Wetlands and Montane Peatlands and Swamps above 900 meters elevation. The majority have suffered of the New England Tableland’ are listed as endangered extreme modification with more than 70 per cent having ecological communities under the Threatened Species been drained or dammed. Most lagoons hold water only Conservation Act 1995 (NSW). Upland wetlands are also temporarily and ecological communities have adapted to nationally listed as endangered under the Environment take advantage of this natural cycle of wetting and drying. Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Hydrological alterations, accumulation of sediment, weed These listings recognise these wetlands’ significance and infestation, ecological damage by feral pest species and vulnerability and provide legislative mechanisms to aid continued clearing are some of the historical and current, their protection. Unfortunately, these listings do not alone threats to these wetlands. Healthy lagoons of this kind ensure wetland conservation. are extremely rare on the New England Tablelands to the Over the past six years, WetlandCare Australia has been extent that only about 15 of the documented 58 remain in a working with landholders, researchers, government reasonable condition. agencies, Landcare groups and passionate individuals Like other high altitude ecosystems with a restricted on projects that have resulted in the protection and distribution, upland lagoons are threatened by the effects enhancement of over 2500 hectares of these wetlands of anthropogenic climate change. The predicted increase and their immediate upper catchments. With funding in temperature and reduction of precipitation are likely from the New South Wales and Federal Governments, to render these wetlands even more vulnerable to factors Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority such as weed and feral animal invasion, as well as having and the Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management a significant impact on the distribution and health of the Authority, WetlandCare Australia has delivered a variety remaining lagoons.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 7 Australasian Plant Conservation
Plants found in wetlands at Ebor: Xyris operculata (left), Thysanotus tuberosus (centre) and Thelymitra cyanea (right). Photos: Adam Gosling.
WetlandCare Australia has facilitated the rehabilitation and to properly manage these wetlands. In addition, the wider protection of five of the most intact upland lagoons through community has been provided with extension services and long-term conservation agreements. These include iconic education opportunities through information dissemination lagoons such as Dangars, Racecourse, Barleyfields and and field days, improving the understanding and capacity Thomas, all located near Uralla, and a second Barleyfields of landholders to better manage these wetlands. lagoon at Glencoe. All these sites now have long-term management agreements in place, and the land managers Future work have the resources to undertake the requisite actions to Due to the significance and limited distribution of the ensure that the wetland’s ecological health is maintained endangered montane wetlands of the New England into the future. Tablelands, they remain a high protection priority for WetlandCare Australia under the organisation’s ‘Australian Montane peatlands and swamps Wetland Biodiversity Program’. This program focuses on Montane peatlands and swamps are found at the headwaters the protection of nationally- and state-listed threatened of high altitude creeks where the topography is relatively species, endangered ecological communities and high flat and runoff is slow. This allows the accumulation of conservation value aquatic ecosystems. peaty or organic sediments which favour these unique With impending climate change, this work is imperative vegetation communities. Common plant families to enhance the resilience of important ecosystems such as represented include Poaceae, Cyperaceae, Myrtaceae and montane wetlands. WetlandCare Australia continues to Fabaceae, which combine to form vibrant and colourful work closely with landowners and other agencies in many wetlands in the hidden corners of the New England areas to restore wetlands and protect their dependant flora Tablelands. Their composition is highly variable and and fauna. differs according to substrate, water flow and historical anthropogenic pressures (including overgrazing, clearing, WetlandCare Australia’s experience in working on draining, nutrient enrichment and high fire frequency). the New England Tablelands in partnership with local Over-exposure to some, or all, of these can ultimately stakeholders has delivered exceptional immediate and result in the destruction of seed banks and the death of future environmental benefits. In addition, the experience these vegetation communities. has also highlighted the value landowners now place on these wetlands and their desire to assist in long-term Like the upland lagoons, the health and diversity of these environmental preservation. It is now widely accepted that ecosystems are also threatened by the likely effects of these wetlands not only have considerable environmental climate change. Increased temperature and decreased value, but also play a vital role in overall landscape health precipitation will result in both a contraction of the species and the resulting agricultural benefits. Traditionally, distributions, increased susceptibility to weed and feral funding available for environmental works has probably animal invasion and higher fire frequencies. Like many exceeded demand; this is no longer the case. high elevation plant communities, there are restricted opportunities for altitudinal succession. WetlandCare Australia’s mission ‘to support the community to protect and restore Australian wetlands’, has resulted in WetlandCare Australia has provided funding to promote protection of 2500 hectares of these wetlands and their the importance and facilitate the rehabilitation and immediate upper catchments. The work undertaken will protection of these fascinating wetlands. Through ensure the existence of these unique montane wetland numerous stages of WetlandCare Australia’s endangered ecosystems for future generations to discover, appreciate ecological community montane wetland projects, and with and treasure. current Federal funding, landholders have been assisted
8 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Wetlands of the Murray-Darling Basin: EPBC Act threatened ecological communities?
Gina Newton Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage & the Arts, Canberra. Email: [email protected]
Under the EPBC Act interdependent groundwater, floodplain and wetland components. The region is considered by experts to be a Areas of significant wetlands form part of two aquatic ‘one of a kind’ system in the national context, and different ecosystems currently being assessed for listing as threatened from other river systems (and the parent rivers) due to its ecological communities under the Environment Protection complex features, habitat heterogeneity, and high levels and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). of biodiversity over relatively short distances. The region The aquatic ecosystems are the Lower Murray–Darling also has special significance to Indigenous peoples. to Sea and the Wetlands of the Darling Basin. Listing would confer national conservation benefits, including an Subsequent to the Lower Murray–Darling to Sea increased public awareness for these highly productive, assessment, another major wetland focussed ecological biodiverse environments. The EPBC Act focuses on community was included on the 2009 Finalised Priority nationally significant aspects of the environment and Assessment List, viz. The Wetlands of the Darling Basin provides for the identification and protection of matters (nominated as Macquarie Marshes). This wetland system of National Environmental Significance. Nationally was frequently flooded prior to regulation and supports threatened species and ecological communities are one of (or supported) large breeding events by colonial water several such matters. birds. Once described, the ecological community is likely to include the terminal wetland systems of the Macquarie The listing process for threatened ecological communities Marshes (some 200 000 ha), Narran Lakes (some 30 000 begins with the receipt of nominations from the public. ha) and the Gwydir (formerly one of the most significant These are strategically assessed by the advisory Threatened semi-permanent wetlands in north-west New South Wales, Species Scientific Committee for suitability and a Proposed some 100 000 ha). These wetlands also support a diverse Priority Assessment List is forwarded to the Environment flora, with many species at the edge of their range, as well Minister for approval each year. Based on the Minister’s as very diverse avian and reptilian faunas. determination, this list then becomes the Finalised Priority Assessment List. The Lower Murray–Darling to Sea and Wetlands of the Darling Basin ecological communities cover the For assessment of the ecological communities on the range of wetland types and forms, from saline to fresh, finalised list, the Department relies heavily on input and ephemeral to semi-permanent, and billabongs and lakes data from experts, including those from State/Territory to braided channels. All are defined by what’s often agencies. Expert consultation also generally includes considered the so-called ‘maestro’ variable in Australia’s holding a technical workshop. More information on riverine ecosystems—flow, with its associated cycles and the process is available at
A new aquatic challenge A first for riverine wetlands The Lower Murray–Darling to Sea is unique in that it The Lower Murray–Darling to Sea was originally represents the first riverine system to be assessed under the nominated in 2007 as the Coorong and Lower Lakes. This EPBC Act as a threatened ecological community. A major was expanded and included on the August 2008 Finalised challenge for this assessment is that the listing assessment Priority Assessment List as The Lower Murray River and criteria were initially developed for terrestrial vegetation- associated wetlands, floodplains and groundwater systems based systems. To be listed under the EPBC Act, at least from the junction of the Darling to the sea. This fitted well one of six criteria contained in the EPBC Regulations 2000 with the Minister’s nomination conservation theme for must be met. The criteria determine whether an ecological that year of ‘rivers, wetlands and groundwater dependent community is eligible to be listed and under which category species and ecosystems of inland Australia’. (i.e. critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable). The advisory committee agreed that there was greater The applicability of the listing criteria to aquatic systems conservation benefit in expanding from the Coorong and in general, and the Lower Murray–Darling to Sea was Lower Lakes (already Ramsar listed and thus a matter specifically discussed as part of the expert technical of National Environmental Significance) to include the workshop held for this assessment process in July 2009. region of upstream influence and impacts, as well as the
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The workshop found that the listing criteria are generally ecological community listing can also provide broader applicable but may need nuancing when applied to aquatic national conservation benefit spatially, for example only systems. The workshop determined that the ‘ecological approximately nine per cent of the Macquarie Marshes is community’ of a large complex aquatic system often currently Ramsar listed. consists of sub-units of different biophysical complexity. For example, while the Lower Murray–Darling to Sea Next steps ecological community may be considered as a ‘constructed’ The assessments for the Lower Murray–Darling to Sea and system (i.e. comprised of several smaller ecological Wetlands of the Darling Basin wetland communities will communities), its components are functionally connected. take up to three years, with the former due by September Thus, criteria should still be applied at the whole system 2011 and the latter by September 2012. The assessment level, not at the sub-unit level. process will include public and targeted consultation to The high variability of aquatic systems—temporal, spatial, assist with the determination of listing eligibility. natural and anthropogenic—combined with the interplay The technical workshop report for the Lower Murray– of surface and ground waters, compounds the challenge Darling to Sea is scheduled to be available for public and requires consideration and some degree of flexibility comment on the Department’s website by April 2010. with respect to interpretation of the listing criteria and their The assessment process for the Wetlands of the Darling concomitant ‘thresholds’. It was considered essential that Basin has just commenced and a technical workshop a quality ‘baseline’ (or benchmark state) be determined, is planned for late 2010. Another technical workshop, keystone or foundation species identified, and key focussing on thresholds associated with the listing criteria indicators of decline (as related to threats) established. and ‘condition’ as they relate to complex aquatic systems Importantly for wetlands and their associated floodplains, it and the Lower Murray–Darling to Sea is planned for was recognised that the assessment should take into account April 2010. the fact that these component-systems can transition between aquatic (wet) and terrestrial (dry) states.
National importance and conservation benefit Both the Lower Murray–Darling to Sea and Wetlands of the Darling Basin ecological communities include several Ramsar listed wetlands. The former community includes the Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert, Riverland (including the Chowilla floodplain), and Banrock Station Wetland Complex. The latter community includes the Macquarie Marshes, Gwydir and Narran Lake Nature Reserve. Australia currently has 65 Ramsar wetlands that cover around 7.5 million hectares. Ramsar wetlands are those that are representative, rare or unique wetlands, or are important for conserving biological diversity. These are included on the List of Wetlands of International Importance held under the Ramsar Convention. Australia also has more than 900 ‘nationally important wetlands’ (as based on meeting one of six criteria). These are wetlands that are a good example in a particular area, an important habitat for native species, or that have outstanding heritage or cultural significance. Nationally important wetlands are listed on the Directory of Important Wetlands (see www.environment.gov.au/water/topics/ wetlands/database/diwa.html). While Ramsar listing of wetlands affords conservation benefit, inclusion of these wetland systems within an overarching threatened ecological community offers complementary conservation benefit beyond the Two wetland areas of the Lower Murray–Darling to sites, including connectivity to other system elements Sea ecological community. such as important upstream influences. A threatened Photos: SA Murray Darling Basin NRM Board.
10 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Vegetation management and hydrological restoration of Bolin Bolin Billabong, Victoria
Karl Just1 and Garry French2 1Yarra Braes Road, Eltham, Vic. Email: [email protected] 2Parks Victoria, Templestowe, Vic.
Background severe reduction in the higher flow events has increased the likelihood of the billabong drying out and remaining Billabong wetlands comprise some of the most endangered dry over long periods, thus favoring terrestrial species, ecosystems in Victoria. Damming and regulation of most particularly weeds, over native aquatic and semi-aquatic major river systems has greatly reduced the capacity of plant species. lowland streams to flood onto adjacent plains, often leaving billabongs stranded and dry. Unless more focus is given to By the late twentieth century Bolin had been greatly these highly significant icons, they are likely to become impacted by agricultural practices and weed invasion. increasingly degraded and modified over time. Cattle were present in the wetland until recently, pugging the banks and grazing sensitive aquatic herbfields. Weeds Bolin Bolin Billabong is a wetland situated in the middle had invaded much of the site, and Wandering Tradescantia Yarra floodplain at Bulleen, approximately 10 km north- (Tradescantia fluminensis) and Blackberry (Rubus east of Melbourne. The billabong is of high cultural fruticosus) blanketed large areas. This highly modified significance to the Wurundjeri people, who formerly habitat was now unsuitable for many ground foraging gathered at the wetland for intertribal meetings and birds and restricted recruitment of native plant species. ceremonies. The site has outstanding natural values and The surrounding floodplain had been mostly cleared and supports disjunct rare plant species, many old-growth developed, although Bolin still retained a relatively intact River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) trees, a high canopy and shrub layer. diversity of bat species and one of the most diverse and intact bird communities in the inner city. Early management and research Bolin is one of only several billabongs remaining from at In the 1990’s, Parks Victoria began a program of least 50 that were formerly scattered along the Chandler restoration that continues to this day. First the Blackberry Basin, a floodplain basin of the lower Yarra River formed and Wandering Tradescantia thickets were removed with by an ancient lake system. In the early days of European herbicide, as the extent of these weeds was too great to settlement wetlands were seen by many as unclean and tackle by hand. Areas that were previously cleared were disease ridden areas, and most of the billabongs were planted with a range of trees and shrubs, which increased filled in to utilise the ground for agriculture, roads and the extent and quality of habitat. sports fields. Groundwater was drained to make way for agriculture and several of the billabongs were used as tip During this time research projects were undertaken sites and filled with garbage. to document the billabong’s botanical composition and investigate its current hydrological regime. It was Of the several remaining billabongs, Bolin is the only found that Bolin supported an assemblage of rare plant wetland whose bathymetry and vegetation has not been species, many that are of disjunct occurrence and more significantly modified, although the hydrological processes common in northern Victoria, including Matted Water that determine its wetting and drying cycles have been Starwort (Callitriche sonderi), Matted Starwort (Stellaria greatly altered. The Yarra River was originally a perched caespitosa) and Short-fruit Nardoo (Marsilea hirsuta). stream that flowed through a complex of swamps and Hydrological studies concluded the billabong was flooding billabongs which would fill regularly when the Yarra far less than historically, and an appropriate flooding spilled its banks (Beardsell, unpublished information). regime was recommended. However by the late twentieth century the base level of the Yarra River had dropped severely due to groundwater Another study that involved analysis of a core sample drainage and river regulation, and the wetland now taken from the Billabong (Paul et. al. 2002) found that floods irregularly. sedimentation rates had increased up to 30 times since European settlement. This is probably due mostly to river Under ‘natural’ conditions Bolin would receive regular regulation, as the Yarra now spills its banks into Bolin only overbank flows from the Yarra, resulting in near annual during big flash-flood events, which bring large volumes inundation and permanent open water existing in all but of silt and turbid water. extended drought periods. Under current conditions a
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Wandering Tradescantia (Tradescantia fluminensis) flower (left) and smothering vegetation (right). Photos: © RCH Shepherd (www.weedinfo.com.au), APII, ANBG.
Intensive restoration Hydrological restoration In 2004 an intensive program of vegetation management In the midst of these dire conditions, Parks Victoria and was begun by Parks Victoria ranger Cam Beardsell. The Manningham Council are currently working on an exciting program, begun shortly after the Yarra flooded into Bolin stormwater harvesting project to restore the natural in December 2004 and in February 2005, included hand hydrological regime to the billabong. The current plan is weeding of exotic grasses and herbs in the northern bay of to initially pump water into it from the river, using screens the billabong, which supported the highest density of rare to prevent colonisation by European Carp which severely native flora. Although removal of Wandering Tradescantia impact aquatic vegetation. Once the billabong is full, the and Blackberry had many positive effects, they were water level will be maintained by allowing entry of treated replaced by an equally threatening assemblage of exotic water from stormwater wetlands to be constructed nearby. herbs and grasses which began to proliferate in the post- The stormwater will be regulated so that the natural regime flood conditions. Many days were spent hand-weeding of flooding and drying can be maintained thus delivering with several volunteers, until the northern bay was almost significant biodiversity enhancements to the billabong. completely weed free. During these works additional rare flora species were Conclusion discovered, many of which are absent or known only The processes that have eliminated and degraded from very few other occurrences in the Melbourne billabongs of the Chandler Basin operate across floodplains region, and demonstrate biogeographic affinities with the throughout Victoria and Australia. The management works Murray River floodplain. Seed collected from several of at Bolin Bolin Billabong span at least 20 years and act as a the most localised species was grown by the Friends of model for restoration of billabongs elsewhere. The works Yarra Parklands nursery and used to enrich the current that continue to progress have secured this wetland as one populations at Bolin. of the greatest jewels of the Yarra River.
Drying Acknowledgements At the time of writing in 2010, the billabong is completely The authors gratefully acknowledge Cam Beardsell for dry. Dense thickets of River Red Gum are establishing in providing ecological and historical information and its floor in areas normally occupied by aquatic herbfields, Deborah Bogenhuber for providing valuable comments on while all of the most significant plant species have the draft article. We thank all others who have played a part temporarily died off in the northern bay. After so many in the restoration of Bolin Bolin Billabong, particularly years of drought and river regulation, the river hasn’t Damien Cook and Glen Jameson. flooded for five years with no promise it will occur anytime soon. Localised plant extinctions may eventually Reference occur and the regenerating River Red Gums may Paul, L., Tibby, J., Kershaw, P., Heijnis, H. and Kershaw, J. establish permanently, drying the soil further and altering (2002). The impact of European settlement on Bolin Billabong, light conditions. a Yarra River Floodplain Lake, Melbourne, Australia. School of Geography and Environmental Science, Monash University, Victoria.
12 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Floristic values and hydrological threats to freshwater claypans in Drummond Nature Reserve, Western Australia
Wendy Chow, Ryan Vogwill and Matt Forbes West Australian Department of Environment and Conservation, Perth. Email: [email protected]
Introduction Geology and hydrology Drummond Nature Reserve, located 100 km north- The reserve occurs high in the landscape between the east of Perth, is 439 ha in area. Prior to 1993, when the Solomon and Mt Anvil sub-catchments of the Avon River. reserve was gazetted, it was freehold land used for stock It consists of a series of lateritic ridges, underlain by highly grazing (Keighery et al. 2002). The majority of the land weathered, Archaean bedrock (Commander et al. 2001) surrounding the reserve has been cleared, although some that outcrops in numerous areas. The reserve is bordered fringing areas have been re-vegetated. to the west by a topographic high and its central area is characterised by a gently undulating laterite plateau. The reserve has a vascular plant flora of at least 439 taxa (Keighery et al. 2002). This includes seven plants on the The south-west claypan is immediately adjacent to the state’s list of poorly known taxa and two that are declared southern and western boundaries of the reserve. The rare (threatened) flora under the Wildlife Conservation Act north-east claypan lies within the reserve’s interior, with 1950 (WA) (Keighery et al. 2002). flow boundaries to the north and west. Surface water flows from the west into the south-west claypan and the Also located within the reserve are two freshwater north-west corner of the reserve. The central lateritic claypans, described as ‘claypans with mid dense shrublands plateau acts as a topographic (bedrock) high between the of Melaleuca lateritia over herbs’ (Keighery et al. 2002), north-west and south-west areas, probably separating the some of the last of their type to remain in their natural area’s groundwater and surface water systems. Kaolinite state. The significance of these claypans was highlighted and illite dominate the claypan sediments, with minor through surveys across the South West Botanical Province sands and lateritic gravels. The two claypans are dry in (Gibson et al. 2005). Land clearing has altered the summer but have up to 50 cm of surface water during the area’s hydrology and may threaten these claypans. As a winter months. consequence of their rarity and threats, the claypans have been proposed as a threatened ecological community. The West Australian Department of Environment and Biota Conservation is undertaking hydrological and floristic The claypans of the reserve are described as predominantly investigations of them to better assess threats and indicate deeper basin claypans characterised by aquatic (Hydrocotyle required management actions. lemnoides) and amphibious (e.g. Glossostigma diandrum, Villarsia capitata and Eleocharis keigheryi) flora taxa, with the shrub layer of Melaleuca lateritia. They also contain a number of the state’s uncommon taxa including Hydrocotyle lemnoides and Schoenus natans (Keighery et al. 2002).
Hydrology and threats to biota Investigations of topography, hydrology and hydrogeology indicate that the reserve can be delineated into three distinctive hydrological sub-regions: the north-west, east and south-west. The north-east and south-west claypans are situated in the east and south-west sub-regions respectively. It is likely that the north-west section is hydrologically separated from the remainder by impervious geological bodies. As a result, shallow and saline groundwaters that are impacting the Wandoo (Eucalyptus wandoo) woodlands in the north-west are unlikely to affect the rest The shrub layer of Melaleuca lateritia in the north-east of the reserve. claypan. Photo: Wendy Chow.
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There is currently no hydrological connection between the claypans and groundwater in the south-west portion of the reserve. However, more investigations and ongoing monitoring are required. Existing evidence suggests that during heavy rainfall events unnaturally large volumes of surface water flow into the reserve at the south-west corner. This threatens the south-west claypan through the introduction of weeds and nutrients, and altered water regimes. The increased surface water inflow could also increase groundwater recharge and result in groundwater discharge into the south-west claypan. Between 2007 and 2009 evidence of excessive levels of total nitrogen were identified within the surface and sub- surface waters of the south-west claypan. High nitrate levels were also identified in groundwater along the reserve’s western boundary. Recent concentrations are greater than values observed during macroinvertebrate surveys in 2004, suggesting that nutrient influxes into the reserve and south-west claypan are increasing. In contrast to the south-west claypan, the north-east claypan catchment is almost entirely contained within the reserve. The claypan itself is about 400 m from any cleared land and is bounded to the north and west by impermeable material. As a result, it is unlikely to be affected by surface water flows from agricultural land, or the high groundwater levels in the north-west of the reserve. Weeds present in Invasion by the weed Paterson’s Curse (Echium this claypan probably originate from animal activity and plantagineum) in the foreground along the south-western grazing impacts. corner of the reserve may threaten the south-west claypan. Photo: Matt Forbes. Gaining floristic data One of the main challenges faced in the collection of two claypans, but this needs to be further monitored and claypan floristic information is the intensive survey assessed. However, the south-west claypan is exposed to effort required. In seasonal clay-based wetlands the taxa agricultural runoff, which contains high levels of nutrients germinate and flower at different times. Some flower and weed seeds; this appears at present to be the greatest during periods of inundation and others flower when the threat to the high floristic values of the reserve. The north- claypans are dry. To gain a representative species list there east claypan is isolated from agricultural runoff and rising is a need for the claypans to be sampled multiple times to groundwater. Further geochemical investigation of ground ensure that all the annual and ephemeral taxa are recorded. and surface waters is required to confirm this, and ongoing This is also the case for ongoing survey work intended to monitoring is essential to protect the reserve’s high help establish linkages between floristic and hydrological biodiversity values. changes in the reserve. References Future work Commander, D.P., Schoknecht, N., Verboom, W. and Casetta, P. The original hypothesis for the altered hydrology of the (2001). The geology, physiography, and soils of wheatbelt valleys. reserve was that observed impacts were all groundwater Dealing with salinity in wheatbelt valleys: processes, prospects and driven and the major threat was waterlogging and practical options. Proceedings of a conference held at Merredin, salinisation. Increased recharge in the catchment was 30 July – 1 August 2001, pp 1-39. hypothesised to be creating a rising saline water table. Gibson, N., Keighery, G.J., Lyons, M.N. and Keighery, B.J. While this is typical of a valley floor scenario, the reserve (2005). Threatened Plant Communities of Western Australia. 2 occurs much higher in the landscape. This confirms the need The seasonal clay-based wetland communities of the South West. to ensure that local hydrology is assessed and assumptions Pacific Conservation Biology 11: 287-301. are not made based on typical drivers of degradation. Keighery, G.J., Gibson, N., Webb, A. and Muir, W.P. (2002). A More detailed investigations have identified that rising biological survey of the agricultural zone: vegetation and vascular flora of Drummond Nature Reserve.Conservation Science Western saline groundwater is causing the impacts in the north- Australia 4(1): 63-78. west corner of the reserve but not within the vicinity of the
14 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Rehabilitating a dry wetland on the southern tablelands of New South Wales
Michael Pattison WetlandCare Australia, Ballina, NSW. Email: [email protected]
Introduction The greatest threat to biodiversity WetlandCare Australia has partnered with the Hawkesbury- One of the main issues for landholders and top priority Nepean Catchment Management Authority to enhance for management at Lake Bathurst and The Morass is the the condition of wetlands in the southern region of the control of the invasive grass, Serrated Tussock (Nasella catchment. The Lake Bathurst system, south of Goulburn, is trichotoma), and its associated impacts on threatened an ephemeral, upland lagoon system comprising two small species, native flora and fauna. This is recognised by freshwater lagoons (The Morass) that flow into a terminal landholders and stakeholders alike. The weed is listed as a saline lake (Lake Bathurst). The system lies in a 1350 ha Class 4 noxious weed in the Goulburn-Mulwaree area. basin with internal drainage and a unique geology. The main control method currently used by landholders Lake Bathurst and The Morass are listed in the Directory is herbicide application (mainly fluproponate) via boom of Important Wetlands in Australia (Environment and spot spraying. This method has some positive Australia 2001) and are also listed by Birds Australia as (although short-term) effect, but because many native an ‘Important Bird Area’. The ongoing drought conditions grasses are susceptible to flupropanate, the total vegetative have seen Lake Bathurst dry for nearly 10 years which has groundcover is substantially reduced by its application. caused dramatic changes in the vegetation composition A consequence of the non-selective impact of this herbicide and a significant decrease in bird populations. is that no competitive native species are retained to prevent the re-establishment of Serrated Tussock seedlings. A Lake Bathurst and The Morass project less stable mixture of broadleaf weeds and annual grasses The project began in 2007 with the preparation of a invade while the chemical is still active. Once the chemical management plan for the wetland to identify the threats has degraded or leached out of the root zone, Serrated to, and values of, the site and provide a framework for Tussock seedlings rapidly re-colonise into the large areas ongoing rehabilitation. Individual property plans were then of disturbed, bare ground. As a result, repeat herbicide undertaken with interested landholders and stakeholders to applications are likely to favour Serrated Tussock. Over improve the condition of wetland areas on private property. time the Serrated Tussock seedbank increases relative to the This led to a series of on-ground works programs that have native species seedbank, leading to weed re-establishment focussed on improving natural regeneration of the lake at even higher densities, eventually resulting in a Serrated margin vegetation, and weed and feral animal control. Tussock monoculture (see Figure 1). The European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculis) was recognised as a major impediment to successful wetland regeneration. The Livestock Health and Pest Authority was therefore contracted to undertake aerial mapping of rabbit harbour (burrows, blackberry thickets and other refuge) and subsequent control programs. This involved ripping burrows, poisoning and the use of explosives. The project had a 95 per cent success rate in eradicating the rabbit population and harbour across Lake Bathurst. Landholders have taken on the responsibility of ongoing control. Remnant fencing and revegetation works have also been carried out on a number of properties equating to: • 10 ha of wetland native vegetation protected by fencing; • 5 ha planted to native wetland species; • 7 ha of wetland connectivity reinstated; and • over 5000 ha of pest animal control. Figure 1. Serrated Tussock (Nasella trichotoma) at Lake Bathurst. Photo: Michael Pattison.
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In 2010 the project partners will work with landholders and stakeholders to coordinate an integrated Serrated Tussock control program aiming to reduce the spread of the weed and increase biodiversity. The focus will be on containing Serrated Tussock within the lake boundary and concentrated control efforts on adjacent properties. Under the current low fertility conditions at the lake, it is likely that some native grasses, in particular summer growing perennial grasses, will be able to grow more vigorously than Serrated Tussock. Greater emphasis will therefore be placed on pasture management to maintain ground cover at a level sufficient to prevent the weed from invading. Should Lake Bathurst return to full water capacity, the weed would be isolated to higher ground and manageable with the current level of management input by surrounding landholders. Unfortunately, the dry lake bed provides an immense, continual source of seed which can be carried Figure 2. Pelargonium sp. (G.W. Carr 10345). by wind for up to 20 km (Osmond et al. 2008), leaving Photo: Michael Pattison. landholders with a seemingly endless battle.
Threatened species includes continual funding. The noxious weed infestation A number of threatened species have been recorded at and encroachment continues to be the most pressing Lake Bathurst and The Morass. They include: management problem. Trials continue to identify • Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea); appropriate management techniques for a dry wetland bed (while praying for rain). • Blue-billed Duck (Oxyura australis); • Freckled Duck (Stictonetta naevosa); Overgrazing has contributed significantly to the spread • Magpie Goose (Anseranas semipalmata); of Serrated Tussock as it germinates rapidly on bare • Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculates); or disturbed ground. Improved grazing management techniques are an essential component of long-term weed • Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus); control. This has been a difficult message to impress upon • Creeping Hop-bush (Dodonaea procumbens); and landholders under the dry conditions. • the recently nominated Native Geranium (Pelargonium sp. (G.W. Carr 10345)) which is known to exist at only Into the future four sites in New South Wales (DECCW 2009). The project has achieved significant success so far with Staff members from the project partners, the Royal Botanic habitat connectivity being re-established from north to Gardens, the Department of Environment, Climate Change south of the lake through revegetation works. Areas of and Water and the Land and Property Management remnant snowgums (Eucalyptus pauciflora) have been Authority visited Lake Bathurst with the hope of finding fenced to restrict grazing and improve natural regeneration the elusive Pelargonium sp. in a sea of Serrated Tussock. of the lake margins, which has been aided by the rabbit Armed with cameras, maps, a GPS and some historical control program. We aim to continue developing projects co-ordinates from a previous sighting, we headed out with landholders in the areas of fencing and revegetation across the dry lake bed to one of the ‘islands’. After a whilst implementing the long-term weed control program. considerable search a few small patches of the plant were found surviving under weed encroachment and grazing References (see Figure 2). A project is now being developed to fence these patches to protect them from grazing. Advice will Department of Environment, Climate Change & Water (DECCW) be sought on the best way to manage the threats posed by (2009). Pelargonium sp. (G. W. Carr 10345) – proposed Serrated Tussock as spraying to control the weed is also endangered species listing, accessed February 2010,
16 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
The invasion of common reed (Phragmites australis) in Chesapeake Bay, USA
Dennis F. Whigham1, Karin M. Kettenring2, Melissa K. McCormick1 and Heather Baron3 1Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater, Maryland, USA. Email:[email protected] 2Utah State University, Logan, USA. 3Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA.
Introduction surrounded by upland habitats with human activities such as suburban and industrial development (King et al. 2007). Species in the reed genus Phragmites (Poaceae) occur A similar pattern has been documented in the Rhode on all continents. The various species are highly valued Island brackish wetlands further north in New England by by some cultures, such as the marsh Arabs in Iraq whose scientists at Brown University (e.g. Silliman and Bertness culture developed in and is interwoven with Phragmites- 2004). The potential threat associated with the continued dominated wetlands. Phragmites is used in many countries rapid expansion of the non-native haplotype of P. australis for a variety of purposes including thatching for roofs, and in brackish wetlands in the Chesapeake Bay is enormous, making mats, baskets and paper. as eventually it could result in the displacement of almost There is a native subspecies of Phragmites australis in all native wetland species, including the native subspecies North America (Saltonstall et al. 2004) but European that sometimes co-occurs with the non-native haplotype. haplotypes have also become established there and are spreading. The non-native haplotype is recognized as an Understanding how it spreads invasive species that has significant detrimental effects on Our research group has been conducting a series of studies native plants and animals. Much of the recent spread of the designed to understand the underlying ecological reasons non-native genotype has occurred in freshwater wetlands for the rapid spread of non-native P. australis. Historically, but it has also been spreading rapidly in brackish wetlands this has been attributed to physical disturbance followed along the Atlantic Coast of North America (Meyerson et by the establishment of plants from fragments of rhizomes al. 2000). (Figure 2a). The rapid spread of P. australis in wetlands at Working in the Chesapeake Bay on the mid-Atlantic our primary research site in the Rhode River sub-estuary coast of the US (Figure 1), our research group found that (Figure 1) suggested that spread was associated more with non-native P. australis was most abundant in wetlands establishment from seeds (Figure 2b) than from rhizomes (McCormick et al. 2010). In the Rhode River, the number of patches of the plant increased from 5 in 1971-1972 to more than 200 by 2007, most of the expansion occurring since the 1980s. Using molecular tools, we found that almost all the patches of P. australis in the Rhode River and nine other sub-estuaries throughout Chesapeake Bay were composed of multiple genotypes and that viable seeds were being produced predominantly in multiple-genotype patches (Kettenring et al. 2010). Multiple-genotype patches can improve the likelihood of cross-pollination and thus viable seed production in P. australis. Our findings have led to a better understanding of the reasons for the rapid spread of the non‑native P. australis haplotype in both disturbed and undisturbed wetlands. The non- native haplotype grows faster and produces more seeds when different haplotypes exchange pollen. Developing seedlings establish particularly well in nutrient rich environments—the current condition in the Chesapeake Bay, which is Figure 1. Map showing the location of the Rhode River sub-estuary suffering in numerous ways from eutrophication of Chesapeake Bay. The Smithsonian Environmental Research and other anthropogenic activities. The increasing Center is located on the Rhode River watershed.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 17 Australasian Plant Conservation
A B Figure 2. (a) A section of Phragmites australis rhizome which became separated following shoreline erosion at Parkers Creek, Chesapeake Bay. Most of the roots and rhizomes have died, but a few parts of the rhizome that potentially can produce new shoots are still alive and green. (b) Phragmites australis inflorescences, Rhode River sub‑estuary. Photos: (a) Dennis Whigham and (b) Karin Kettenring.
production of viable seeds in more and more patches that conservation of wetlands dominated by native species may contain multiple genotypes leads to an ever increasing be possible. probability that new patches will become established as more viable seeds are dispersed over a wider area. A lesson for elsewhere? Eventually the establishment of new patches from seeds Our research has potential implications for other parts of the becomes a self-perpetuating process and disturbance, world where Phragmites australis occurs. In areas where which was necessary for the initial establishment, is no the native genotypes may be declining, the importance longer required. of seed production should be explored. In wetlands where Phragmites suddenly begins to spread, the genetic A new management model characteristics of the new patches need to be investigated Our research leads to a new paradigm for managing non- to determine if it is a native or non-native haplotype. If native P. australis. Typically herbicide is used to remove it is non-native, early detection and management need to individual patches. Our research suggests that the removal be employed. of one or a few patches will have little long-term effect because patches will quickly re-establish from seeds that References are being produced in extant patches or persisting in the Kettenring, K.M., McCormick, M.K., Baron, H.M. and Whigham, seed bank. Consequently, effective management can occur D.F. (2010). Phragmites australis (common reed) invasion in the only when all patches within a sub-estuary are eliminated. Rhode River subestuary of the Chesapeake Bay: disentangling the Eliminating the sources of seeds is essential because effects of foliar nutrients, genetic diversity, patch size, and seed almost all patches contain multiple genotypes and will viability. Estuaries and Coasts 33: 118-26. continue to produce seeds that potentially will initiate King, R.S., Deluca, W.V., Whigham, D.F. and Marra, P.P. (2007). new colonization. Threshold effects of coastal urbanization on Phragmites australis Once all patches have been eliminated within a sub- (common reed) abundance and foliar nitrogen in Chesapeake Bay. estuary, diligent long-term management will be effective Estuaries and Coasts 30: 469-81. through periodic monitoring and removal of individuals McCormick, M.K., Kettenring, K.M., Baron H.M. and Whigham, that become established in the future. This approach will D.F. (2010). Extent and reproductive mechanisms of Phragmites eventually be more cost effective and can be accomplished australis spread in brackish wetlands in Chesapeake Bay, Maryland by local citizen volunteers or organizations such as the (USA). Wetlands 30: 67-74. Riverkeeper groups that are common in many Chesapeake Meyerson, L.A., Saltonstall, K., Windham, L., Kiviat, E. and Bay sub-estuaries (e.g. www.westrhoderiverkeeper.org/). Findlay, S. (2000). A comparison of Phragmites australis in The result of not applying a sub-estuary level approach freshwater and brackish marsh environments in North America. Wetlands Ecology and Management 8: 89. to management of P. australis could eventually be the complete dominance of the non-native genotype in Saltonstall, K., Peterson, P.M. and Soreng, R.J. (2004). brackish tidal wetlands in Chesapeake Bay. While the cost Recognition of Phragmites australis subsp. americanus (Poaceae: of removing the plant at the sub-estuary scale may initially Arundinoideae) in North America: evidence from morphological be high, now is the time to evaluate this approach to its and genetic analyses. SIDA 21: 683-92. management because delay will result in the continued Silliman, B.R. and Bertness, M.D. (2004). Shoreline development march of the non-native haplotype into brackish tidal drives invasion of Phragmites australis and the loss of species wetlands of Chesapeake Bay. It is still early enough in diversity on New England salt marshes. Conservation Biology 18: the invasion process that management, restoration, and 1424-34.
18 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Removing the Devils Claw from Gregory National Park, Northern Territory
Karlie Goetze and Derek Sandow Department of Natural Resources, Environment, The Arts and Sport, NT. Email: [email protected]
Introduction shaped, hairy leaves that are unpalatable to livestock. Its bell-shaped flowers are about 5 cm long and range from Volunteers who love nature and are keen to spend a white to pink in colour. The spiny seed capsules can injure week in one of the Northern Territory’s largest and livestock and native animals. most picturesque national parks were being called on to participate in the 2010 Devils Claw Festival being held While most Devils Claw seeds germinate within the first on 12-16 April. The Festival is a volunteer environmental two years after forming, many can remain viable for up to project run biannually by the Northern Territory Parks and 10 years, which is why control programs need to be lengthy Wildlife Service in Gregory National Park, located in the to ensure all possible infestations are removed. remote north-west region of the Territory near the Western The Northern Territory has declared Devils Claw a Class Australia border. A weed (to be eradicated) and a Class C weed (not to be Gregory National Park features rugged and spectacular introduced into the Northern Territory). The main methods landscapes of limestone ranges and gorges, magnificent of controlling it are spraying with herbicide, slashing and river and tributary systems, and significant traces of grubbing or hand pulling. Aboriginal culture, European exploration and pastoral history all within its 13 000 km2 area. The riparian habitats Tackling the weed in Gregory National Park along the river systems are home to many threatened Of the four river systems within Gregory National Park native species including the Purple-crowned Fairy Wren (the East Baines, West Baines, Humbert and Wickham (Malurus coronatus) and the Gouldian Finch (Erythrura rivers), Devils Claw has infested the East Baines River, gouldiae) but these habitats are under threat by Devils the Humbert River and a tributary of the Wickham River Claw (Martynia annua). called Gibbie Creek. Devils Claw: a nasty weed A Devils Claw eradication program was commenced in the park in 1992. Although all control methods have been Devils Claw is a fast growing annual plant native to Central used, it’s been found that hand pulling is the most efficient, and South America that was introduced to Australia as an thorough and environmentally sound method. The control ornamental plant in the late 1860s and established in the operation involves two teams, one on either side of the Northern Territory after World War II. It is a large bushy waterway, walking along searching, hand pulling, recording herb that can grow to about 2 m high, and has large kidney and mapping all Devils Claw plants encountered.
Devils Claw foliage and flowers (left) and seed pods (right). Photos: NT Parks and Wildlife.
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Devils Claw Festival The first Festival held in May 2009 was extremely successful, with 12 volunteers and eight park rangers involved. For the first time since the eradication program commenced no Devils Claw was found in the East Baines area, which had an infestation of over 17 000 plants when it was discovered 18 years ago. On that same field trip 460 plants were removed from the Gibbie Creek section and 420 plants from the Humbert River section. Further work on the Gibbie Creek section was carried out by park rangers and Traditional Owners in September reducing the plant numbers by a further 389. During the second Devils Claw Festival held in December 2009 a team of 12 volunteers, Traditional Owners and park rangers did not discover any new seedlings for the first time Volunteers helping to eradicate Devils Claw from riparian ever. Devils claw is spread predominately by floodwater habitats within Gregory National Park, Devils Claw Festival but can also be spread by feral animals. As most of the 2009. Photo: NT Parks and Wildlife. plants higher in the catchments had been removed, this reduced the seed bank and may have been why no new The Festival is held along some remote stretches of river in plants were discovered during the festival. There was only spectacular surrounds that are rarely visited. The country is scattered rainfall in October and November 2009 which rugged, the weather hot and humid and the work physically could also have contributed to the seeds being unable demanding, but it is a week volunteers never forget. It is to germinate. the friendship, character and spirit of the volunteers that We’re not sure what to expect during the Devils Claw make the Devils Claw Festival; the people who give up Festival at the end of the wet season in April 2010, as the their time to make an important environmental contribution rainfall was still below average at the time of writing. are great company to keep. The work of volunteers and local Indigenous groups Making a difference over 18 years has been crucial in reducing the impact of Volunteers who participate in the Devils Claw Festival this invasive weed. Volunteers can get a real sense of arrange their own transport to the ranger station in Timber pride and achievement in helping to preserve the pristine Creek, which is located on the Victoria Highway about environment within Gregory National Park, and the Devils halfway between Katherine in the Northern Territory and Claw Festival is great fun. Kununurra in Western Australia. Upon arrival all the food, For further information or to register your interest contact accommodation and transport within the Park is provided Derek Sandow on 08 8975 0833 or email derek.sandow@ by the Parks and Wildlife Service. nt.gov.au.
Tackling wetland weeds: reducing impacts and restoring native vegetation on the Far North Coast of New South Wales
Laura White and Garry Owers WetlandCare Australia, Ballina, NSW. Email: [email protected]
Introduction project in the Bungawalbin funded by the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority. The project will involve The Bungawalbin, located south of the town of Coraki fencing off wetlands and controlling weeds in partnership on the Far North Coast of New South Wales (NSW), is with landowners. Two of the worst weeds identified at the a 1770 km2 sub-catchment of the Richmond Catchment. location are Cat’s Claw Creeper (Macfadyena unguis-cati) WetlandCare Australia is managing a wetland restoration and the aquatic weed Salvinia (Salvinia molesta).
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Cat’s Claw Creeper An integrated solution Cat’s Claw Creeper, a native of South America, was WetlandCare Australia is working with landholders at introduced to Australia as an ornamental and screening Bungawalbin to combat the devastating impacts of these plant. This vigorous, perennial climber has become an weeds. A combination of manual removal and biological aggressive riparian weed in eastern Australia. The vine control is being employed to assist native wetland develops woody stems which can grow over 20 m long and vegetation to regain a foothold. 15 cm thick. Leaves are positioned in opposite pairs along the stem, with each leaf comprising two pointed leaflets Cat’s Claw Creeper and a sharp three-pronged tendril (like a cat’s claw), In established infestations, eradication of Cat’s Claw which allows the weed to climb vertically up tree trunks. Creeper is almost impossible and a key management goal Aerial roots that attach to the trunk of host trees assist in is the reduction of impacts (CRC Weed Management climbing. Each plant also produces numerous, persistent, 2008). Chemical control can be effective, however there underground tubers from which it can regenerate readily. is the risk of damage to native vegetation, enabling the target weed to regrow readily. Considering this, the current This vine has become a severe environmental weed, approach being employed involves cutting all the climbing devastating native riparian vegetation. It outcompetes weed stems and then manually removing them from tree understorey plants by forming a dense mat over the trunks within the infestation. This leaves the tops of the ground, and its woody stems grow prolifically into the weed to die in situ, while causing minimal disturbance to canopy, smothering and eventually killing large trees. native species. Cat’s Claw Creeper is already well established in south- eastern Queensland and north-eastern NSW, where it is Additionally, a leaf-sucking tingid bug (Carvalhotingis having significant impact and threatening endangered visenda) is being deployed as a biological control agent. ecological communities, including littoral rainforest and These insects are natural predators of the plant and eucalypt floodplain forest (CRC Weed Management 2008). can cause significant damage when introduced to well- If not kept in check, Cat’s Claw Creeper will become more established infestations, reducing the rate of spread and abundant within its current range and expand along the vigor and giving native plants a chance to re-establish. east coast. Industry and Investment (formerly The Department of Primary Industries) currently rears and supplies this agent Salvinia for release. Abundant and intact native vegetation is often the best defense against riparian weed invasion, and it Salvinia is a free-floating aquatic fern, native to Brazil, is hoped that with the intervention of integrated control which was originally introduced as a pond or aquarium measures the resilience of the affected riparian vegetation plant, and has now become a severe aquatic weed in can be restored. Australia. Its branching stems float on the water surface producing pairs of oval shaped leaves with looped hairs. Salvinia Brown root-like structures extend from the stems down A combination of manual and biological control techniques into the water. In young plants the leaves lie flat, and is also being used to target Salvinia infestations in the separate on the water’s surface, but as plants mature and area. Like Cat’s Claw Creeper, Salvinia is very hard to the infestation becomes dense, leaves become crowded eradicate, although various control methods can reduce and tightly packed like a concertina. If left untreated, the its impacts (CRC Weed Management 2003). Chemical plants clump together forming dense mats on the surface control of Salvinia can be effective, however the dead of still, and slow moving water and surrounding wet mud. material sinks, further clogging the system and releasing Salvinia does not produce seeds or spores in Australia but nutrients, which degrade water quality and encourage spreads readily from tiny plant fragments, which can be regrowth. Additionally the chemicals themselves may introduced to new waterways through boats, flooding and harm wetland flora. Instead, a technique is being trialed aquatic birds. that involves the manual removal of the bulk of the plant Salvinia is regarded as one of Australia’s worst weeds for material from small wetlands using a 23 mm mesh nylon its invasiveness and environmental impacts (CRC Weed trawler net, attached to a 4WD vehicle. The net measures 1 Management 2003). It can grow very rapidly from a single m deep and 5 m long, with floats connected to the top, and small frond to a dense mat covering the entire water surface. weights connected to the bottom to drag live Salvinia from These mats reduce light penetration and impede oxygen the water surface as well as the old dead material below exchange making the water unsuitable for aquatic flora. (Figure 1). This will ensure the removal of the living weed, This aggressive weed is widespread along the east coast of as well as its clogging, nutrient releasing, dead biomass. Queensland and NSW, with smaller pockets elsewhere in Biological control with the Salvinia Weevil (Cyrtobagous Australia. It has the potential to become widespread within salviniae) is also being implemented to prevent regrowth every state of Australia. of remaining plant fragments. The combined attack of weevil larvae feeding on stems and adults feeding on buds
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It is envisaged that manual removal of the Salvinia biomass will reinstate light penetration and water health, allowing native aquatic plants to re-emerge while weevils control Salvinia regrowth. Salvinia thrives on excess nutrients so strategic land management to keep wetlands healthy will also benefit in controlling this invasive weed.
Conclusion Successful management of wetland weeds often involves a focus on reducing their immediate impacts and spread, as eradication may often be unachievable in well-established infestations. A combination of strategic manual removal and biological control techniques can be used to reduce the biomass and vigor of the weeds with minimal damage to native species. This approach can allow native vegetation Figure 1. Dragging Salvinia mat from a Bungawalbin wetland to re-establish, improving resilience to re-infestation. using a trawler net towed by a 4WD, 2009. Photo: John Blatch References can cause plant death, eventually sinking the dense mats CRC Weed Management (2003). Weed Management Guide – (van Oosterhout 2006). Over a period of months or years Salvina – Salvinia molesta. Available online at
Adelaide Botanic Gardens First Creek Wetland Aquifer Storage and Recovery Project
Phil Ainsley and Andrew Pill Botanic Gardens of Adelaide. Email: [email protected]
Introduction It is anticipated that the system will completely replace the use of potable water over a five year period, with an The Botanic Gardens of Adelaide and Department for anticipated usable capacity of 130-135 megalitres (ML) Environment and Heritage (South Australia) are soon to per annum. commence the establishment of a storm water aquifer storage and recovery project, known as the Adelaide Botanic Gardens First Creek Wetland Aquifer Storage Background and Recovery Project. The scheme will allow stormwater The Adelaide Botanic Gardens uses about 120 ML of water to be diverted from First Creek, treated through a wetland annually. Although it has a permit to use mains water in before being stored in, and subsequently recovered from, times of prolonged drought and severely restricted water an underlying aquifer. The project will ensure that the availability, the Garden would much prefer not to rely on a Adelaide Botanic Gardens has access to a secure water mains water supply. The project will provide an alternative supply for irrigation purposes and will significantly and slightly larger water source, with a usable capacity reduce the Garden’s demand for potable water from the up to 135 ML per annum. The system will also provide River Murray.
22 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation surplus water to the nearby Botanic Park, which currently with wetland plants. After flowing through the macrophyte uses 40 ML of water that is primarily sourced from the zone the treated water will pass over a rapid sand filter River Torrens. and be directed into an injection bore into a fractured rock aquifer that is located at a depth of about 115 metres under Project aims the Gardens. Water will be treated and recharged into the aquifer over the winter months, and recovered over the The primary aims of the project are: drier summer period. • significantly reduce the Garden’s reliance on potable water for irrigation The other significant part of the proposed works is the landscaping and visitor amenity features, including a • promote sustainable use of alternative water supplies in boardwalk over the wetlands and paths through and around an urban environment the storage ponds. Project provision has been made for a • reduce the detrimental impact of storm water pollutants series of education nodes along a wetland trail. Themes in the First Creek catchment area on the downstream and stories for the interpretive aspect of the project Torrens Lake. will include:
Scope of works • comparative experience, to contrast the sensory feel of the different areas To be able to complete the project the following works • mapping of cross sections and zones, to more closely will be undertaken: examine the wetland treatment sequence and consider • construction of a gross pollutant trap, sedimentation changes in biology and ecology across the system basin, macrophyte zone and storage basin • water testing stations to show the difference in water • re-alignment and landscaping of the First quality between the First Creek input and the stored Creek watercourse irrigation water • construction of pump rooms containing plant and • inspection station for the gross pollutant trap, pump equipment required for injecting treated water rooms, and water treatment plants. into the aquifer and recovering stored water for As part of the landscaping, the alignment of First Creek will irrigation purposes be altered to create a more natural water course, together • construction of low level retaining walls, paths and with an extensive program of planting and landscaping the visitor amenities, including a boardwalk through the areas surrounding the water system. macrophyte wetland zone. Construction works are scheduled for completion by the end of the 2011, with commissioning planned for March Water storage, recovery and a wetland 2012. It is intended that Adelaide Botanic Gardens water An Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) system refers to use will become completely self-reliant after five years of the process of storing water in an aquifer during periods its operation by 2016. of water availability, and recovering the water when required in drier seasons. Prior to injection into the aquifer the water passes through a sedimentation basin and into a wetland which slows the water, allowing natural processes (including nutrient and bacteria removal and sedimentation) to occur which improve water quality. The project will see the development of an off-line wetland system where stormwater will be diverted from its normal flow down First Creek and be allowed to flow under gravity through the wetland. The system will receive stormwater flows via a control structure used to limit the maximum flow into the wetland. The control structure also incorporates a gross pollutant trap that treats all of the stormwater flow down First Creek. The water flowing into the ASR will pass through a Continuous Deflective Separation System to capture gross pollutants and separate sediments from stormwater by centrifugal force. The gravity fed flow will then pass into a sedimentation basin (the wetland) with an average depth of 2 First Creek as it looks today, Adelaide Botanic Gardens. one metre and an area of about 600 m , then cascade across The area in the background is where the wetland site will be a broad gravel weir into the macrophyte zone. This zone constructed. Photo: Phil Ainsley. will contain areas of varying water depths and be planted
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 23 Australasian Plant Conservation
Supporting the wetland community to protect and restore Australian wetlands
Kate Heyward WetlandCare Australia, Ballina, NSW. Email: [email protected]
WetlandCare Australia is a national not-for-profit, non- • improve the recognition and implementation of the government science-based organisation, with a mission Ramsar Convention for internationally significant to support the community in the protection and repair of wetlands across Australia and Oceania. Australian wetlands. We do this through action-based As part of our Ramsar Program to promote the wise use partnerships with governments, landholders, natural of all wetlands (through communications, education, resource managers, researchers and the community. participation and action) WetlandCare Australia provides Our focus is on on-ground community engagement in a number of support tools, which are available to assist project delivery and the provision of technical expertise, with information sharing, dissemination, networking and education and local advice on best practice wetlands to improve awareness of what work is being conducted protection, biodiversity conservation, and management around Australia. and rehabilitation. We are proud to have been protecting wetland biodiversity since 1991, especially in this, the International Year of Biodiversity. WetlandCare Australia implements its mission by: • supporting and using the latest science to develop and implement best practice wetland protection, WetlandLink conservation, restoration and management measures WetlandLink is a free electronic newsletter which • working in partnership with landholders, natural highlights current news from around Australia, and the resource managers, community groups and governments world, each month. The newsletter currently has over 1200 to achieve local, regional and landscape scale change subscribers. It provides the latest news and information • providing technical expertise and building community on wetland rehabilitation and management case studies, capacity to undertake on-ground action. wetlands under threat, research, education and resources along with any other wetland related news. To subscribe Conserving our living wetlands to WetlandLink go to WetlandCare Australia’s website As Australia’s leading wetland conservation organisation,
24 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation for NGO’s working in wetlands. AWA provides a • planting more than 1000 trees to reinstate valuable communications tool for people working in NGOs wetland and riparian habitat via an email list for correspondence and through • erecting more than 40 km of fencing to protect vital regular forums. It has over 70 members and is currently wetland and riverine habitats free for NGOs. For further information, contact • supported farmers to adopt innovative wet pasture and
A new organisation supporting wetland restoration, management and research in the Murray Darling
Roger Good 1178 Bungendore Road, Bungendore, NSW. Email: [email protected]
Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd was established in 2009 Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd is committed to building as an initiative of the New South Wales (NSW) Murray community support for wetland restoration, management Wetlands Working Group. The company is a not-for-profit and research, by linking corporate donations, management organization registered under the Australian Securities expertise and community participation in restoration Commission as a charity, and has an objective of involving the community in wetland restoration and management. The company has a Board of Directors and members from the wider community, including scientists, landholders, and conservationists as well as NSW catchment management authorities (CMAs), the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, the Murray Darling Association and the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre. The Board and membership include many leaders in wetland management, restoration and research and people who are attuned to modern irrigation practice that takes account of environmental issues. As a non-profit company Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd seeks corporate and public donations as well as donations of water for wetland restoration and other environmental uses. The Company has ‘deductible gift recipient status’ with the Federal Government and is listed on the Register Murray Darling Wetlands community members inspecting a of Environmental Organisations. wetland project site. Photo: Roger Good.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 25 Australasian Plant Conservation projects. It has established a public fund for the specific Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd has personnel with purpose of supporting all Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd experience and expertise in wetland restoration and environmental objectives, and will derive income through management. Examples include Moira Lake and Thegoa public donations, water trading and fees for advisory and Lagoon restoration; delivery of 75 000 megalitres of management services. water to more than 200 wetlands across two catchments; wetland mapping and inventory; database development Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd is able to: and management; wetland research and monitoring; and • engage the community in wetland management projects project financial management. • develop partnerships with stakeholders to restore and For further information contact: improve wetland management • attract corporate and philanthropic support for Dr Deb Nias, wetland restoration and management orientated Chief Executive Officer, research projects Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd, • develop cooperative wetland management arrangements PO Box 313, Blackwood, SA 5051. between catchment management authorities and across Ph: 0417 287 651 state boundaries and agencies Howard Jones, • be a service provider with respect to wetlands, for Chairperson, industry, CMAs and government agencies Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd, • facilitate community understanding and involvement in Block 246, Dareton, NSW 2717. wetland restoration and management Mob: 0427 274 525 • provide expert advice and wetland project coordination and management Roger Good • develop and implement environmental ANPC member and water monitoring Murray Darling Wetlands Ltd Board Member, • initiate and/or support management orientated wetland 1178 Bungendore Road, research projects. Bungendore, NSW 2621. Ph: 02 6236 9048
Medicinal plants of Nigeria’s savannah areas under threat
T.R. Fasola Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Email: [email protected]
The savannah areas of northern Nigeria almost taken over The management and conservation measures in the past by desertification caused by inadequate rainfall, excessive had always been influenced by taboos that restricted people heat, drought and sand dunes are fast losing plant species. from destructive harvesting of plant species (Osemeobo, Plants under threat may be rated as critically endangered, 1994). The impact of some management actions now endangered, threatened or vulnerable depending on the may be very small since such services are weak and area occupied, population size and rate of population ill equipped. The medicinal uses of these plant species decline (IUCN, 1994). Human existence is gradually being are vast and alternative lesser known species should adversely affected since many plant species found in this be substituted so as to reduce the pressure on the over- harsh region are important for their competing uses for sourced ones. As a management strategy, proper records food, medicine and other purposes. Table 1 shows a list of plant status must be kept so as to monitor the rate and of 35 plant species belonging to 17 different families with mode of collection for ascertaining how plant species are various medicinal uses. Massive dependence on medicinal harvested. The perception and orientation of harvesters plants, destructive and over-collection of barks and other must also be changed for they believe that plants can never plant parts have given rise to dying and dead trees in this be exhausted. region. As the harvested plant parts become more and more difficult to source from the wild, their market prices correspondingly become higher.
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Table 1. Medicinal plants of savannah areas of Nigeria showing degree of threat
Botanical name Family Part used Medicinal uses Degree of threat* Acacia ataxacantha Leguminosae Root Heart problems Threatened Adansonia digitata Bombacaceae Stem bark Heart problems Threatened Afzelia africana Leguminosae Stem bark Hernia Vulnerable Annona senegalensis Annonaceae Root Gastro-intestinal problems Vulnerable Aristolochia ringens Aristolochiaceae Root Gastro-intestinal problems Endangered Balanites aegyptica Simaroubaceae Stem bark Central nervous system Threatened Bombax costatum Bombacaceae Stem bark Diuretic Endangered Bridelia scleroneura Euphorbiaceae Stem bark Rheumatism Endangered Cassia arereh Leguminosae Stem bark Dermatitis Critically endangered Cissampelos owariensis Menispermaceae Root Rheumatism Threatened Combretum collinum Combretaceae Leaves Bronchitis Critically endangered Commiphora kerstingii Burseraceae Stem bark Bronchitis Endangered Dombeya quinqueseta Sterculiaceae Bark Antidote for snake bite Endangered Ficus ingens Moraceae Stem bark Diuretic Endangered Ficus thonningii Moraceae Aerial root Jaundice Vulnerable Haematostaphis barteri Anacardiaceae Stem bark Febrifuge Endangered Hannoa undulata Simaroubaceae Bark Fever Endangered Harrisonia abyssinica Simaroubaceae Root Rubefacient Endangered Heeria insignis Anacardiaceae Leaves Vermifuge Endangered Kigelia africana Bignoniaceae Stem bark Respiratory problems Threatened Maprounea africana Euphorbiaceae Stem & Root bark Female fertility problems Endangered Ormocarpum pubescens Leguminosae Leaves Rheumatism Endangered Parkia biglobosa Leguminosae Stem bark Sore throat Vulnerable Prosopis africana Leguminosae Stem bark Pile Threatened Pteleopsis suberosa Combretaceae Bark Pile Endangered Pterocarpus lucens Leguminosae Stem bark Stomachic Endangered Sclerocarya birrea Anacardiaceae Bark Stomachic & wound dressing Endangered Securidaca longepedunculata Polygalaceae Root Central nervous system Vulnerable Spondias mombin Annonaceae Root Application on wounds & sprains Vulnerable Swartzia madagascariens Leguminosae Seed Laxative & diuretic Endangered Syzygium guineense Myrtaceae Root Rheumatism Threatened Tamarindus indica Leguminosae Root & Stem bark Central nervous system Vulnerable Vitex doniana Verbenaceae Stem bark Pile Threatened Xylopia aethiopica Annonaceae Fruit Central nervous system Threatened Zanha golungensis Sapindaceae Bark Malaria, anelgesic Endangered
* Based on IUCN (1994)
References IUCN (1994). IUCN Red List Categories, IUCN Species Commission, Gland, Switzerland. Osemeobo, G.J. (1994). The role of folklore in environmental conservation – evidence from Edo State, Nigeria. International Journal of Sustainable Development and World Ecology 1: 48-55.
Threatened medicinal plants Xylopia aethiopica (left) and Kigelia africana (right). Photos: Taiye Fasola.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 27 Australasian Plant Conservation
ANPC in the USA: directions in science and conservation at the Smithsonian Institution
Zoë Smith Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Maryland, USA. Email: [email protected]
I am currently a postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian soil elevation gain by 3.9 mm/yr, which has the potential Environmental Research Center (SERC), Edgewater, to counterbalance sea-level rises (see Proceedings of the Maryland, USA. This regular report covers some of my National Academy of Sciences 106(15): 6182-6). experiences in environmental research in the United In other climate change news, researchers at Michigan States and provides recent highlights in science and State University have found 17 types of actions that could conservation there. An introduction to this regular report significantly reduce annual household carbon emissions and background on SERC can be found in the Australasian to generate short-term greenhouse gas reductions, such Plant Conservation 18(2): 28-9. as improved home insulation and upgrades of heating and cooling equipment and general equipment maintenance. Snowmageddon Results of the research show that implementation of the Some call snowflakes Heaven’s kisses, but when they fall suggested actions in America could save up to 123 million in armies and build a two foot wall around your house and metric tons of carbon per year or 7.4 per cent of US national barricade you inside for days on end they’re no longer emissions, highlighting the potential for increased policy such a novelty, especially for the back. Hence the popular attention toward household actions (see Proceedings of the saying “free snow – shovel all you like!” While Aussies National Academy of Sciences 106(44): 18452-6). were sweltering in record heat, America was shivering A review of 22 years of literature surrounding biodiversity under a blanket of thick snow. In fact, at one stage all 50 management in the face of climate change provides states had snow on the ground. Record snowfalls were a consensus of recommendations and outlines future recorded all over the country, including a season total of directions. The review shows that recommendations over 60 inches in Washington DC. Power outages were generally include improving regional institutional commonplace and the nation’s capital was largely shut coordination, expanding spatial and temporal perspective down for a whole week, leading President Obama to call and incorporation of climate change scenarios into all the blizzard ‘Snowmageddon’. People were getting around planning and action. However, improved biodiversity the city on cross-country skis and racing to buy the last of management will require more specific and operational the toilet paper. management plans, a practical planning process that Folks here at SERC have been taking bets on when the integrates recommendations into policies and programs and largest piles of snow will melt. I made the most of the snow greater effort to incorporate human activities. It also needs by learning how to ‘snowshoe’ in the beautiful mountains to extend management of biodiversity beyond reserves of New Hampshire. In addition, I thoroughly enjoyed my and into human-occupied landscapes (see Biological first White Christmas. Conservation 142: 14-32). Preliminary results of my research on the mycorrhizal Smithsonian research highlights associations of the Platanthera orchids show that the Researchers in the Forest Ecology lab at SERC have genus associates with diverse soil fungi, including known shown that forest growth rate has increased over a 22-year orchid mycorrhizas, ectomycorrhizas and ascomycete period. The study involved measurements of tree biomass fungi. While the majority of fungal isolates were identified in 55 temperate forest plots in Maryland in eastern USA. as orchid mycorrhizal fungi in the form genus Tulasnella, Postdoctoral Fellow Sean McMahon and colleagues the broad diversity of fungal associations in Platanthera discovered that, on average, the forest is growing an contrasts with most terrestrial orchids which associate additional 2 tons per acre annually. Accelerated tree growth with narrow fungal clades. Two hybrid taxa associated appears to be related to increased levels of atmospheric with fungi that were also identified in their parent species, CO2, higher temperatures and longer growing seasons (see although one hybrid also associated with a novel fungus. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 107(8): 3611-5). Information and links Meanwhile, in the Biogeochemistry lab, Postdoctoral Fellow For further information on research at the Smithsonian Adam Langley and colleagues measured soil elevation in Environmental Research Center, visit
28 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
New Key Threatening Processes listed under the EPBC Act
Two key threatening processes (KTPs) have been recently pedicellatum) to plant and animal species and ecosystems listed by the Federal Environment Minister under the in northern Australia. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation The second KTP recognises the adverse impacts on native Act 1999 (EPBC Act). They are: biodiversity and ecosystems of escaped invasive garden • Ecosystem degradation, habitat loss and species decline plants in many parts of Australia. The ‘escapees’ include due to invasion by Gamba Grass and other introduced species such as Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides), grasses (listing effective from 16 Sept 2009); and Lantana (Lantana camara), Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus • Loss and degradation of native plant and animal habitat aggregate), willows (Salix spp.), Salvinia (Salvinia by invasion of escaped garden plants, including aquatic molesta), Athel Pine (Tamarix aphylla) and Gorse (Ulex plants (listing effective from 8 January 2010). europaeus) which are now recognised as weeds of national The first of the two KTPs recognises the damage significance. being caused by Gamba Grass (Andropogon gayanus), Details of why these threatening processes have been listed Para Grass (Urochloa mutica), Olive Hymenachne can be found through
Report from New Zealand Plant Conservation Network
Eric Scott Email: [email protected]
New Website Threatened Plants of New Zealand The new PCN website is now fully functional and has a This new book by Peter de Lange, Peter Heenan, David number of new features. Prominent among these is the Norton, Jeremy Rolfe and John Sawyer, published by online shop for various publications, which has already Canterbury University Press, was officially launched by proved a great success. The site also has new search the Minister of Conservation, the Hon Kate Wilkinson, functions. For example, if any Australian reader coming to on Thursday 25 March. The beautifully illustrated book New Zealand is planning to visit a reserve or a number of combines precise botanical description with lavish reserves, it is now possible to search online for plant lists for illustrations in describing the 189 species defined by specific areas. This search function has a Google mapping conservation scientists as Extinct or Threatened, using interface. The site now has over 18 000 images loaded and the New Zealand Threat Classification System. Each that total is increasing all the time. Offers of images that description contains information on how to identify the we could add to that total are always gratefully accepted. plant in question, the specific threats it faces, and its current distribution. New Zealand’s favourite plant In the 2009 vote for New Zealand’s favourite plant the winner was Pingao, Golden Sand Sedge (Desmoschoenus spiralis). It won in competition with over 100 species. The top ten included three species on the verge of extinction.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 29 Australasian Plant Conservation
Research Roundup
Compiled by Kirsten Cowley, Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research, Canberra.
Barrett, G., Trappe, J.M., Drew, A., Stol, J. and Kuussaari, M., Bommarco, R., Heikkinen, R.K., Helm, A., Freudenberger, D. (2009). Fungus diversity in revegetated Krauss, J., Lindborg, R., Ockinger, E., Partel, M., Pino, J., paddocks compared with remnant woodland in a south- Orda, F., Stefanescu, C., Teder, T., Zobel, M. and Steffan- eastern Australian agricultural landscape. Ecological Dewenter, I. (2009). Extinction debt: a challenge for Management & Restoration 10(3): 200-209. biodiversity conservation. Trends in Ecology & Evolution 24(10): 564-571. Benson, D. and Picone, D. (2009). Monitoring vegetation change over 30 years: lessons from an urban bushland Li, D-Z. and Pritchard, H.W. (2009). The science and reserve in Sydney. Cunninghamia 11(2): 195-202. economics of ex situ plant conservation. Trends in Plant Science 14(11): 614-621. Brownlie, H., Playford, J., Wallace, H. and Shapcott, A. (2009). Population ecology and genetics of the vulnerable Martyn, A.J., Seed, L.U., Ooi, M.K.J. and Offord, C.A. Acacia attenuata (Mimosaceae) and their significance (2009). Seed fill, viability and germination of NSW for its conservation, recovery and translocation. species in the family Rutaceae. Cunninghamia 11(2): Australian Journal of Botany 57(8): 675-687. 203-212. Clarke, P.J., Knox, K.J.E., Campbell, M.L. and Copeland, McQuillan, P.B., Watson, J.E.M., Fitzgerald, N.B., Leaman, L.M. (2009). Post-fire recovery of woody plants in the D. and Obendorf, D. (2009). The importance of ecological New England Tableland Bioregion. Cunninghamia processes for terrestrial biodiversity conservation in 11(2): 221-239. Tasmania – a review. Pacific Conservation Biology 15: 171-196. Debuse, V.J., House, A.P.N., Taylor, D.W. and Swift, S.A. (2009). Landscape structure influences tree density Mooers, A.O. and Redding, D.W. (2009). Where the rare patterns in fragmented woodlands in semi-arid eastern species are. Molecular Ecology 18(19): 3955-3957. Australia. Austral Ecology 34(6): 621-635. Nield, A.P., Ladd, P.G. and Yates, C.J. (2009). Ferguson, A.V., Pharo, E.J., Kirkpatrick, J.B. and Marsden- Reproductive biology, post-fire succession dynamics Smedley, J.B. (2009). The early effects of fire and and population viability analysis of the critically grazing on bryophytes and lichens in tussock grassland endangered Western Australian shrub Calytrix breviseta and hummock sedgeland in north-eastern Tasmania. subsp. breviseta (Myrtaceae). Australian Journal of Australian Journal of Botany 57(8): 556-561. Botany 57(6): 451-464. Frith, A., Offord, C.A. and Martyn, A.J. (2009). To bag or Patrick Smith, F. (2009). Assessing the habitat quality of not to bag? The effect of different collection methods on oil mallees and other planted farmland vegetation with seed germination of Zieria arborescens ssp. arborescens reference to natural woodland. Ecological Management Sim.. Ecological Management & Restoration 10(3): 238- & Restoration 10(3): 217-227. 241. Penman, T.D., Binns, D.L., Brassil, T.E., Shiels, R.J. and Goddard, M.A., Dougill, A.J. and Benton, T.G. (2010). Allen, R.M. (2009). Long-term changes in understorey Scaling up from gardens: biodiversity in urban vegetation in the absence of wildfire in south-east dry environments. Trends in Ecology & Evolution 25(2): 90-98. sclerophyll forests. Australian Journal of Botany 57(7): 533-540. Hobbs, R.J., Higgs, E. and Harris, J.A. (2009). Novel ecosystems: implications for conservations and Saintilan, N. (2009). Biogeography of Australian restoration. Trends in Ecology & Evolution 24(11): 599- saltmarsh plants. Austral Ecology 34(8): 929-937.. 605. Thrall, P.H., Broadhurst, L.M., Hoque, M.S. and Bagnall, Kim, J-h., Walck, J.L., Hidayati, S.N., Merritt, D.J. and D.J. (2009). Diversity and salt tolerance of native Dixon, K.W. (2009). Germinability of seeds stored Acacia rhizobia isolated from saline and non-saline in capsules on plants of two myrtaceous shrubs: soils. Austral Ecology 34(8): 950-963. differences among age cohorts and between species. Turner, S.R., Merritt, D.J., Renton, M.S. and Dixon, K.W. Australian Journal of Botany 57(6): 495-501. (2009). Seed moisture content affects afterripening and Koch, J.M., Ruschmann, A.M. and Morald, T.K. (2009). smoke responsiveness in three sympatric Australian Effect of time since burn on soil seedbanks in the native species from fire-prone environments. Austral jarrah forest of Western Australia. Australian Journal Ecology 34(8): 866-877. of Botany 57(8): 647-660.
30 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Book Reviews
Restoring natural areas in Australia users would be those who work with groups involved in land restoration, as by Robin A. Buchanan well as students. Tocal College, Paterson, NSW, 264 pages, lavishly illustrated in colour. ISBN 978-0 7313 0621-3, $44.00 Restoring Natural Areas in Australia (inc GST), plus postage and handling. Order online at touches on just about every aspect of the www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/aboutus/resources/bookshop/, or wide-ranging field of land restoration by phone on 1800 025 520 and bush regeneration. The layout is user friendly, with much of the content Robin Buchanan’s new book Restoring Natural illustrated by a wonderful selection of Areas in Australia has recently been released, photos and diagrams. Tables detailing and is sure to fill a gap for anyone with a specific actions for use in restoration practical interest in the Australian bush. provide very clear information. It is 20 years since Robin’s book Bush The book covers the basics of how to Regeneration–Recovering Australian understand the ecosystems being restored, and see the Landscapes, was published. It was a milestone for bush wide range of possible actions. Importantly there is advice regeneration, then a fairly new industry. A weighty and about where to find out more about these topics. information-packed text book, it complemented the formal qualification (also designed by Robin) offered through To succeed in restoring a natural area means ‘tuning in’ to the NSW TAFE system, and helped the industry gain the landscape, learning to read its health, and estimating credibility and recognition. It became an Australian best the level of resilience—the ability of degraded bushland to seller, but has been out of print for some time. naturally regenerate. In the section on ‘Setting the Scene’, this concept is described as ‘the most important concept Knowledge about restoring natural areas has continued to that you will need to know when restoring an area’. grow and the industry has expanded, and for some years Assessing and harnessing resilience has its own chapter. Robin has been keen to up-date the book. The project got underway in earnest in 2006 with the involvement of Tocal The other topics covered include: College, a NSW government training centre specialising in • Basic ecology, different ecosystems agriculture and land management, and also a publisher of • What is ecosystem resilience reference books. • How natural areas become degraded and in need Darren Bayley, Acting Manager of Continuing Education of repair at Tocal, explained that through the National Conservation • Project planning, management, costing, deciding and Land Management Training Network, he is in regular what your priorities should be, what methods to contact with training providers across the country. He use, monitoring heard a consistent message: we need a basic ecological • Funding, legal issues restoration textbook. With Tocal publishing, and some • Assessing your site, including soils, geology, landform, financial assistance from the Australian Association of vegetation, wildlife, fire, aquatic systems, weeds Bush Regenerators NSW, Restoring Natural Areas in Australia was born. • The practicalities of doing the work, including tools, safety, weed management techniques, herbicides, No longer teaching full time, Robin, and her collegue Ann erosion control, seed collecting and planting, pile burns, Loughran, were available and willing to start from scratch stormwater management. to develop a completely new book. The last two years have been full of researching and writing. Robin found that a One particularly useful section is ‘Organising your lot more specific information was available now—such as project—where do you start?’. Advice on how to plan a planting techniques for particular regions, how to control project, and determine what to do first, is not always easy to specific weeds, project descriptions and scientific research. find, but Restoring Natural Areas helps fill the gap. Under She tried to bring all this together, interpret it and make it this topic different ways are suggested for managing your accessible. However she was concerned that there was not project. Costing of a project is covered in another chapter. enough information about general principles: how to think Planning your project and costings for proposed work are through a project, assess a site, and so on, so she set out to especially relevant when seeking funding and assistance. fill the gaps. The section ‘Working on your site’ gets down to the nitty The new book is very clearly written and is suitable for gritty of how to manage weeds so that natural regeneration those who do not have access to a training course and wish can occur, how to use other restoration methods such as to undertake land restoration on their own properties. Other direct seeding, and how to carry out pile burns. A large variety of weed control techniques are illustrated and
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 31 Australasian Plant Conservation
Book Reviews (cont.) details of the methodology given. In addition to the Restoring Natural Areas in Australia is easy to understand generally used techniques, others are introduced such as for those who are new to restoration, and will also be a solarisation, scalping and capping. useful refresher for experienced folks who may not have formal training or were trained a few years ago—a chance Those interested in the conservation of particular plant to catch up with the latest thinking. As an interesting and species will be able to use this book to understand the practical guide to coexisting with our natural environment, restoration of ecosystems and habitat. Information relating it deserves a place on every Australian bookshelf. to particular plant species and their requirements may need to be sourced elsewhere—especially for threatened Louise Brodie, NSW Department of Environment species, which should only be worked on in agreement and Climate Change, Sydney and Virginia Bear, with the local conservation agency. Newsletter Editor, Australian Association of Bush Regenerators NSW.
Australia’s Biodiversity and it will exacerbate them. Reponses of human Climate Change society to the effects of climate change may, unless carefully managed, adversely by Will Steffen (lead author) affect the survival of many components of CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood Vic., 2009, biodiversity. History makes me pessimistic 248 pages, lavishly illustrated including colour that we will be able to act in time to prevent photographs. many impacts. Paperback, ISBN: 9780643096059, $69.95 Available from: www.publish.csiro.au Climatic trends, based on a variety of Publication of this important book observations, are discussed. One of the coincided with the failure of the postulated drivers for climate change is Copenhagen meeting and a plethora of an increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide media commentaries either bemoaning concentration, and even the most rabid or welcoming this outcome. Amid all this of climate change deniers would be hard excitement, the potential impacts of climate change on put to dispute that the current CO2 concentration in the biodiversity have tended to be lost from view, other than atmosphere is far higher than pre-industrial revolution for a few cause célèbre, such as the polar bear. times, nor that the rate of increase is itself increasing. What is less often appreciated is that the change in carbon Australia is, as federal environment ministers are wont dioxide levels will have differential direct effects on plant to emphasis, one of the few megadiverse first world species, resulting in change in community composition, nations. Even if our claims over large areas of Antarctica and flow-on effects to fauna. are put aside, Australia includes a vast range of climatic conditions, from tropical to subantarctic, from (limited) There have already been changes in species distribution areas of high, reliable rainfall to a vast arid zone. The or performance in a variety of environments, which are United Nations’ Convention on the Law of the Sea gives best interpreted as responses to climate change but these the Commonwealth responsibilities for managing a huge are only the prelude to anticipated extensive changes over area of ocean and its biodiversity, but the main focus of this the next few decades. Australia is amongst the world book is on Australia defined by the edge of the continental leaders in modelling species’ distribution and developing shelf, although Christmas Island gets a brief mention. predictions of responses to climate change and examples of these are provided. Australia’s biodiversity is reviewed in a succinct account, which is a model of its type and, I hope, is destined to The idea of communities as ‘super organisms’ was much become essential background reading for ecology and debated in the early twentieth century but was rejected in geography courses. The justification for conserving favour of models based on the individuality of species’ biodiversity is also presented and there is a clear discussion responses to environmental conditions. Nevertheless some of what is meant by ecosystem services. of the popular discussion of responses to climate change envisages not only species but communities moving across The changes to Australian biodiversity since European landscapes. However, species will move at different rates, settlement are reviewed, and the interactions of various so that while we can talk about entities such as ‘forest’ or stressors emphasised. These stressors will continue to have ‘woodland’ moving, it is less likely that ‘assemblages of impact on biodiversity regardless of climate change, but species’ (the definition of community within threatened when climate change is superimposed on the environment, species legislation) will remain intact. There will be
32 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Book Reviews (cont.)
‘novel’ combinations of species, not just of native but also currently listed threatened species will be winners but introduced species. Predicting what these combinations it is difficult to predict which species will fall in which will be is very difficult; we must expect the unexpected. category. How do we allocate our conservation dollar for best long term return? Even if we maximise connectivity The challenges of conservation in a changing and uncertain in the landscape should we be more interventionist and world are discussed and suggestions for policy responses ‘help’ species island-hop or move through corridors? are offered. Should we focus on conserving specific communities, One of the most important features of the biodiversity even though their species composition may change, or paradigm is that it has broadened the objects of should we concentrate primarily on strategically enhancing conservation. While a great deal of biodiversity connectivity across the country? conservation has focussed attention on only a small These debates will necessarily continue, but Steffen et proportion of biodiversity-threatened (in the formal sense al. have provided a firm foundation on which to base defined by legislation) species, it has also been possible the discussion. to designate threatened communities. While this had been important in broadening public understanding of the scope Associate Professor Paul Adam, School of Biological of conservation, it presents great challenges for the future. Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales. Under the new environmental regime there will be winners and losers amongst species. I suspect that few of the
Forest Pattern and Ecological Process cover and composition, structure of the A synthesis of 25 years of research ash forests, native animal occurrence and distribution, disturbance regimes, and forest by David Lindenmayer management and biodiversity conservation. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood, Vic., October Each individual part finishes with a 2009, 320 pages, illustrations (including colour). summary of the topics covered in that part, Paperback, ISBN: 9780643096608, $120. a short statement of the lessons learned, the Available from: www.publish.csiro.au remaining knowledge gaps and the links of Seldom has there been the continuity each topic to other parts preceding it. of research over several decades in one ecosystem as detailed in this book by David Having read through parts 1 to 6, one Lindenmayer and his co-research personnel gains a clear understanding of the forest in their study of the montane ash forests of environment within which Lindenmayer the Central Highlands of Victoria. and his team carried out the many research projects that are well synthesised in the book. The Central Forest Pattern and Ecological Process is a synthesis Highlands montane forests are seen in quite a different of more than 25 years of ecological research in the ash perspective and one certainly gains a ‘feel’ for the dynamic forests. Most significantly, it provides the reader with nature of these special forest ecosystems. an understanding of the role and function of the many components that make up the ash forest ecosystem and the The chapters on disturbance regimes (Part 5) examine many issues involved in carrying out research in forests three broad examples of disturbance: a natural disturbance such that the many ecological links between the biota and (fire) and two imposed disturbance regimes (clearfell the landscape can be recognised. logging, and post-fire or salvage logging). The impacts of disturbance and the role disturbance plays in the vegetation The book does not present any new research but it does dynamics and the distribution of flora and fauna species, provide, through easily read text, a clear and concise are clearly articulated in these chapters. synthesis and understanding of the research carried out by Lindenmayer and his team. As he states in the preface, ‘the The structure of the chapters and the text within each book has been written for a broad audience, including other provides for continuity of the themes and topics outlined, researchers, resource managers, policy-makers, naturalists and engenders in the reader a need and desire to continually and readers with a general interest in forests’. reconsider the previous topics in terms of each subsequent chapter. All readers will be inspired by this book to delve The structure of the book readily meets Lindenmayer’s further into the detail of the non-tree components of the expectations for a wide readership. It has seven parts in 18 montane ash forests. The book could well be titled ‘Seeing chapters, five parts being on the core components of forest the forest beyond the trees’.
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 33 Australasian Plant Conservation
Book Reviews (cont.)
The book should be read by all ecology students even in forest research which he acknowledges will take another if they are not studying montane forest ecology, as 25 years to address. One can only hope that his research throughout the chapters, Lindenmayer explains the team will be provided with the resources to continue over many issues in establishing and undertaking ecological that period and that they will synthesise the work in the research in montane forest systems, as well as providing same ways as have been covered in this book. suggestions and guidelines to address these in other forest Written by a very hands-on and noted ecologist, Forest and non‑forest environments. Pattern and Ecological Process is arguably one of the A short but significant chapter is Chapter 17, which best contributions to ecological understanding written in addresses the perennial issue of monitoring. As Australia in recent years. It should be on the shelf of every Lindenmayer notes, there is a prolonged history of poorly ecology and natural resource management student, as planned and unfocused monitoring programs that are either well as in the library of every higher education institution ineffective or fail completely, and very few examples of where ecology and natural resource management courses long-term monitoring programs that contribute to effective are presented. and meaningful natural resource management. As Lindenmayer admits, the book has not been easy The monitoring program in the Central Highlands montane to write and there are many omissions of topics that he ash forests is a stand-out example of what is required of would have liked to, or should have, included within it. monitoring especially over a long time-frame. This has Irrespective, he has done a superb job of synthesising 25 provided Lindenmayer with the experience and expertise to years of research into very easily read and understood text, detail the issues to be addressed in setting up an effective from which students of ecology, biodiversity management, long-term ecological monitoring program, particularly natural resource management and the like, will benefit. one that contributes to future ecosystem and biodiversity Unfortunately the cost of the book will be beyond the conservation and management. If students read no more than financial resources of many University students, making this chapter, they will have gained much from this book. access to it through libraries even more essential. The 2009 fires in the Central Highlands montane forests Roger Good, Alpine Ecologist, Bungendore, NSW. have provided Lindenmayer and his team new directions
Information Resources and Useful Websites
Planting Wetlands and Dams: A Practical Guide to Contested Country: Local and Regional Natural Wetland Design, Construction and Propagation Resources Management in Australia nd (2 edition) Marcus B. Lane, Cathy Robinson & Bruce Taylor (eds) Nick Romanowski CSIRO Publishing, October 2009, 264 pages Landlinks Press, November 2009, 169 pages Paperback ISBN: 9780643095861, AU $79.95 Paperback ISBN: 9780643096363, AU$59.95 In this book leading researchers in planning, geography, Planting Wetlands and Dams is a step-by-step, plain environmental studies and public policy critically review language guide to the creation of conditions in which Australia’s environmental management under the auspices wetland plants will thrive, from design and construction of the Natural Heritage Trust over the past decade, and to collecting plants, seeds and propagation. Completely identify the challenges that must be met in the national revised and expanded, this new edition includes quest for sustainability. It is the first comprehensive, comprehensive information for around 200 genera of critical examination of the local and regional natural wetland plants from Tasmania to the tropics, complemented resources management undertaken in Australia, using by more than 60 new colour photographs. It discusses the research sourced from all states as well as the Northern modification and improvement of existing dams, new Territory. The book challenges some of the accepted lining materials available, and planning for plant and benefits, assumptions and ideologies underpinning regional animal habitat needs. It provides updated information on scaled environmental management, and is available from legal requirements as well as significant exotic weeds, and
34 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australasian Plant Conservation
Information Resources and Useful Websites (cont.)
Numbers of Living Species in Australia and the Grassland Flora, a Field Guide for the Southern World (2nd edition) Tablelands (NSW and ACT) A.D. Chapman David Eddy, Dave Mallinson, Rainer Rehwinkel and Sarah Sharp Australian Biological Resources Study, Canberra, September 2009, Environment ACT, 1998, 156 pages 80 pages ISBN: 0731360214, AU$20 plus postage, ISBN (printed) 978 0 642 56860 1 discount available for multiple copies ISBN (online) 978 0 642 56861 8 This easy to use field guide helps people to explore This report updates information first published in 2006, grassland plants in grassland heritage areas on the Southern drawing on the most up-to-date data. It estimates that Tablelands of New South Wales and the Australian Australia has 21 171 vascular plant species (including Capital Territory. The book is now distributed by Friends ferns and bryophytes, and 1184 new records or newly of Grasslands Inc., and can be ordered via its website described species) and 11 846 species of fungi. Of the
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 35 Australasian Plant Conservation
Conferences and Workshops
Knowledge for managing Australian landscapes— meals and course materials. Return transport from Armidale the legacy of Land & Water Australia conference to the Retreat is available for $50 but seats are limited. 18-19 May 2010 Further information and to pre-register interest for the Shine Dome, Canberra workshop: contact Caroline Gross via the on-line site
36 Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 AustrAlAsiAn PlAnt ConservAtion
ANPC Corporate Members
ANPC acknowledges the support of the following corporate members
Albury Botanic Gardens, NSW Greening Australia, VIC Australian National Botanic Gardens, ACT Mackay regional Botanic Gardens, Qld Botanic Gardens of Adelaide, SA redland City Council, Qld Botanic Gardens Trust, NSW royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, VIC Centre for Plant Biodiversity research royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, TAS Department of Environment and Conservation, WA Sydney Olympic Park Authority, NSW dept of Sustainability and Environment, VIC University of Melbourne, Burnley Campus, VIC ForestrySA
This book provides a mine of information on recent advances in plant germplasm conservation in Australia and beyond ... I cannot think of a better text to recommend on this subject.
Professor Stephen D. Hopper Director, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
$39.95 + p/h ORDER YOUR COPY NOW www.anpc.asn.au/publications.html
FULLY REVISED EDITION
Vol. 18 No. 4 • March - May 2010 Australian Network for Plant Conservation Inc (ANPC) 8th National Conference
Planning conservation . Photo: David Coates to achieving restoration: Banksia brownii A conference for everyone involved in conserving Australia’s unique flora and native vegetation 28 September to 1 October 2010, Perth WA . Photo: Andrew Crawford . Photo: Andrew Early bird registration open until 28 July 2010
Call for abstracts open until 16 July 2010 Calytrix breviseta
Conference themes: Conservation Planning The role of taxonomY Strategic conservation planning projects are underway Taxonomy is the science of discovering, resolving, all around the world in an attempt to make the most of describing, naming and identifying living organisms. It limited resources to get the best conservation outcomes provides the key building blocks for biological science possible. This theme will explore some of these efforts and conservation and the most fundamental audit and and their significance to plant conservation. Will landscape inventory of biodiversity. Without the basic knowledge or regional-scale planning save individual species? of species of plants, fungi and animals provided by taxonomists, managing and interacting with the Photo: Melanie Smith Seeds and genes for restoration natural world would be an impossible task. This theme Successful ecological restoration necessitates the explores taxonomy as a critical underpinning science collection of high quality and suitably sourced seed. This in conservation planning, sustainable development, raises a number of issues related to genetic provenance, biodiversity research, natural resource management and seed quality and harvest sustainability. Although community engagement with the living world. restoration guidelines generally recommend using local
seed sources to maximise local adaptation and prevent Soil Health and restoration Crawford Photo: Andrew outbreeding depression this approach may not be ideal The composition of vegetation, and presence of particular in highly modified landscapes and under scenarios of species of plants, is driven to a great extent by the soil rapid climate change. In this theme we will investigate the upon which they occur. Disturbance can alter soil structure trade-off between the need for local sourcing and broader and chemistry such that restoration projects may need to Verticordia albida. sourcing of seed, keeping in mind that restored plant either undertake soil-restoration works, or look outside populations will need to be functional, self-sustaining and of original vegetation composition to restore ecological resilient to environmental challenges. function. This theme looks at how projects can and do deal with soil health in effective restoration projects. Engaging with Industry Engaging with industry can provide opportunities to Planning for Climate Change utilise specialist expertise and experience in conservation Human-caused climate change is already having a and restoration projects, and form valuable partnerships profound impact on plant conservation. In this theme Freebury . Photo: Greg which can achieve successful outcomes. Whether it’s we explore: adaptation and transformation, including the botanical consultants identifying conservation values importance of refugia in conservation programs; managing through survey work or mining companies managing new vulnerabilities, compounded by the effects of the Banksia montana restored land on their leases, there are many avenues to disturbance; and, translocation, restoration and the engage industry. This topic seeks to discuss the challenges implications for landscape ecology. of identifying the ‘who, what, how, why and when’ of industry involvement in plant conservation. Futher information can be found on the ANPC website: www.anpc.asn.au/conferences/2010/ . Photo: Andrew Crawford . Photo: Andrew Jacksonia pungens
Australasian Plant Conservation b u l l e t i n o f t h e A u s t r a l i a n N e t w o r k f o r P l a n t C o n s e r v a t i o n i n c For further information contact: Ph: + 61 2 6250 9509 Australian Network for Plant Conservation Fax: + 61 2 6250 9528 GPO Box 1777 Email: [email protected] Canberra ACT 2601, Australia Website: http://www.anpc.asn.au